Piston valve with annular passages

ABSTRACT

A control valve includes a valve body with a plurality of ports and a plurality of annular flow passages. At least one valve element such as a piston which includes a plurality of annular flow passages and a longitudinal flow passage is selectively movable within a bore within the valve body through operation of a valve controller. The valve controller includes a motor that is selectively operative to control the position of the at least one valve element to enable liquid flow through a plurality of flow paths. The valve may be utilized in system arrangements which oxidize and filter out contaminants in liquids such as water.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Exemplary arrangements relate to liquid valves such as piston valves with annular passages which may be classified in US Class 137, Subclass 625.690. Exemplary arrangements relate to valve configurations that are utilized in connection with devices which require fluid flow through multiple flow paths, for example, systems for water treatment.

BACKGROUND

Valve and system arrangements for controlling the flow of liquids may have numerous different forms. In situations where the liquid is required to be selectively directed to multiple different flow paths, such arrangements can be complex. Additional complexity may arise when different flow sequences and flow paths are required in connection with different process steps involving a liquid. Further complexity arises when liquids are required to be mixed with other fluids in connection with carrying out process flows.

Valve and system arrangements may benefit from improvements.

SUMMARY

Exemplary arrangements include a valve arrangement that is capable of selectively directing a liquid to multiple different flow paths. An exemplary arrangement includes a control valve having a valve body. The valve body includes an elongated longitudinal cylinder bore. The cylinder bore is in fluid communication with a plurality of different liquid ports which include inlet and outlet ports. The ports are in fluid connection with a plurality of respective generally annular passages extending adjacent to the bore within the valve.

A piston is movably positionable longitudinally along an axis within the cylinder bore. The exemplary piston includes a profile configuration which includes a plurality of longitudinally disposed annular flow cavities. Selectively positioning the piston longitudinally in the bore through operation of a valve controller causes the different ports of the valve to be placed in fluid communication through fluid passages within the valve. The exemplary valve controller is operative to enable the valve to be used in conjunction with other process equipment for purposes of selectively directing the flow of liquid through the equipment in different flow paths during a plurality of process steps. Such process steps may include steps involving mixing of the liquid with other fluids and materials as required. The exemplary valve further includes the capability to selectively shut off liquid flow and to provide bypass flow in order to stop and bypass the flow of liquid from certain process equipment associated with the valve.

Exemplary arrangements specifically relate to a water control valve and system that is selectively operative to enable the removal of undesirable chemicals from water. An exemplary valve is operative to enable flow conditions to be changed to regenerate a resin material or other filter material in a tank when necessary to maintain optimal performance of the system in removing undesirable substances. Some exemplary arrangements further provide a valve that includes the functionality of an integrated water shutoff valve and a bypass valve. This exemplary valve arrangement eliminates the need for separate valves and piping to accomplish such functions.

Further some exemplary arrangements include a readily changed or modified valve controller for operation of the exemplary valve. The exemplary valve controller enables the valve controller to be readily installed, removed and replaced when necessary for maintenance or repair purposes. Further some exemplary arrangements provide a means for readily operatively connecting the valve controller and the valve body so that they may operate together.

Numerous other novel arrangements and features are described in connection with the exemplary arrangements discussed herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary control valve including a movable piston and a plurality of annular flow passages configured for use in connection with a water treatment tank.

FIG. 2 is a view similar to FIG. 1 which shows the control valve in a different operating condition.

FIG. 3 is a view similar to FIG. 1 which shows the control valve in yet another operating condition.

FIG. 4 is a view similar to FIG. 1 which shows the control valve in another operating condition.

FIG. 5 is a view similar to FIG. 1 which shows the control valve in another operating condition.

FIG. 6 is a view similar to FIG. 1 showing the control valve in another operating condition in which flow of liquid into the valve is shut off.

FIG. 7 is a view similar to FIG. 1 which shows the flow of liquid through the treatment tank bypassed through the valve.

FIG. 8 is an isometric view showing an exemplary valve controller housing and a valve base being moved toward an operative position.

FIG. 9 shows the valve base and valve controller housing in an operative position.

FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative exemplary control valve.

FIG. 11 is an isometric partial cutaway view of a portion of the valve associated with a changeable injector.

FIG. 12 is an opposite hand partial cutaway showing the portion of the valve in FIG. 11 .

FIG. 13 is a cutaway view showing features of an exemplary liquid treatment system.

FIG. 14 is a schematic view showing certain features of the system in FIG. 13 .

FIG. 15 is a partial cutaway front perspective view of a further exemplary liquid treatment system.

FIGS. 16-19 are front sectional views of the system of FIG. 15 shown in various stages of operation.

FIGS. 20-21 are alternative arrangements for positioning a control valve in a liquid treatment system.

FIGS. 22-28 show an alternative arrangement for a liquid treatment system, including a liquid connector suitable for connecting a control valve and a liquid treatment tank.

FIG. 29 is a perspective view of a further alternative valve configured for use in connection with an enclosed tank that operates to oxidize and filter out contaminants in liquid, the valve configured to be mounted underneath the tank.

FIG. 30 is a perspective view of the valve shown in FIG. 29 with the components for connecting the valve and the tank shown as an exploded view.

FIG. 31 is a perspective view of an exemplary check valve configured to be mounted in an opening in the top of a tank.

FIG. 32 is a schematic view of a pair of tanks utilized to oxidize and filter out contaminants contained in a liquid, with both of the tanks in a service condition.

FIG. 33 is a view similar to FIG. 32 but with one of the tanks shown in a service condition and the other tank in a condition that corresponds to decompression and/or air introduction into the top of the tank.

FIG. 34 is a view similar to FIG. 32 but with one of the tanks shown in a backwash condition.

FIG. 35 is a view similar to FIG. 32 but with one of the tanks shown in a rinse condition.

FIG. 36 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary valve of the type shown in FIG. 29 shown in the service condition.

FIG. 37 is a cross-sectional view of the valve shown in FIG. 29 with the valve in a decompression or air draw condition.

FIG. 38 is a cross-sectional view of the valve shown in FIG. 29 with the valve shown in a air release condition.

FIG. 39 is a cross-sectional view of the valve shown in FIG. 29 with the valve shown in a backwash condition.

FIG. 40 is a cross-sectional view of the valve shown in FIG. 29 with the valve shown in a rinse condition.

FIG. 41 is a cross-sectional view of the valve shown in FIG. 29 with the valve in a shut off condition.

FIG. 42 is a schematic view of a water treatment system with a pair of tanks similar to FIG. 32 , but with the check valves at the top of the tanks replaced with air injector assemblies, which air injectors utilize filtered liquid from the adjacent tank to introduce air into a flow of filtered liquid that enters the top of the tank.

FIG. 43 is a schematic view of a pair of tanks similar to FIG. 32 shown with both of the valves in the service condition, but including valves that enable each of the tanks to be backwashed and/or rinsed with filtered liquid from the adjacent tank.

FIG. 44 is a schematic view similar to FIG. 43 with one of the tanks shown in the service condition and the other tank shown utilizing filtered liquid from the adjacent tank for backwash or rinse.

FIG. 45 is a schematic view similar to FIG. 44 but with the conditions of the tanks reversed from the conditions shown in FIG. 44 .

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The exemplary arrangements described herein may be used in conjunction with the components, features, systems and methods described in one or more of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/698,381 filed Apr. 28, 2015; U.S. Pat. No. 14,698,399 filed Apr. 28, 2015, Ser. No. 15/590,733 filed May 9, 2017, Ser. No. 16/009,376 filed Jun. 15, 2018; Ser. No. 15/960,955 filed Apr. 24, 2018; 62/119,507 filed Feb. 23, 2015; 62/069,897 filed Oct. 29, 2014; 61/986,423 filed Apr. 30, 2014; Ser. No. 14/024,918 filed Sep. 12, 2010; 61/607,343 filed Mar. 6, 2012; 61/513,450 filed Jul. 29, 2011; 61/494,449 filed Jun. 8, 2011 and/or U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,535,540; 9,714,715; 9,970,558; 10,012,319; 10,011,500; 10,012,319; 10,479,699; 10,494,267; 10,494,268; 10,495,230; 10,590,008; 10,633,262; 10,822,250; 10,822,251; 10,822,252; 10,829,388; 10,865,122; 10,865,123; 10,865,124; and 10,948,091 the disclosures of each of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

Referring now to the drawings and particularly FIG. 1 , it is shown therein an exemplary control valve generally indicated 10. Control valve 10 includes a valve body 12. The valve body 12 is schematically represented and is comprised of one or more parts which function in the manner that is represented schematically in FIGS. 1-8 .

The exemplary valve is used in operative connection with a water treatment tank 14. Tank 14 of the exemplary arrangement is a water softener tank that extends generally vertically with the valve 10 positioned at the top thereof via a threaded or other releasable connection. It should be appreciated that the water treatment application is only an exemplary use for the control valve configuration and that the proportions of the tank as shown in the Figures are not necessarily representative of tanks that may be utilized in connection with the control valve described. Rather, in most water treatment arrangements the exemplary valve will be used with a vertically elongated tank which is many times longer than the height of the valve body. Further the exemplary valve may be used in conjunction with other types of processing systems and equipment.

The exemplary water treatment tank comprises an enclosed tank that includes a top portion 16 and a bottom portion 18. The exemplary tank includes a water treatment material 20 therein. In some exemplary arrangements, the water treatment material 20 comprises resin material that is suitable for ion exchange with mineral laden water that is treated by flowing therethrough. Such resin material may be comprised of plastic beads or zeolite material that has a negative charge. The exemplary operation of the water treatment tank includes capturing ions in water that make the water “hard” such as calcium and magnesium ions and replacing such ions in the water with ions that are not undesirable such as sodium ions. In other arrangements other types of treatment materials other than ion exchange resin materials may be used. These materials may include absorbent materials, filtration materials, catalytic materials, dissolving materials, reacting materials or other types of materials. Of course it should be understood that the types of liquid processing, treatment materials and methods described are exemplary and in other arrangements, other types or additional types of equipment, materials, structures and elements for treating water or other liquids may be used.

In the exemplary arrangement, the tank 14 includes a central tube 22 extending vertically therein. Tube 22 includes an internal tube conduit 24. The exemplary tube conduit extends between a top end 26 of the tube and a bottom end 28 of the tube. The bottom end of the tube is fluidly open to the area of the tank that includes the resin material. The bottom end of the tube is in operative connection with a strainer 30. Strainer 30 operates to prevent the resin from entering the fluid conduit inside the tube.

The exemplary valve body includes an elongated cylindrical bore 32. The bore 32 is elongated in a longitudinal direction which is the vertical direction as the valve is shown in FIG. 1 . The longitudinal direction may alternatively be referred to as an axial direction herein. The bore 32 has a movable piston 34 therein. The piston 34 includes on its outer circumferential surface, a plurality of longitudinally spaced recessed annular flow cavities such as cavity 36. The exemplary piston 34 also includes a longitudinal flow cavity 38. Longitudinal flow cavity 38 extends through the piston from a first longitudinal end 40 to a second longitudinal end 42.

The valve body further includes a plurality of annular flow cavities 44 for example, that extend in at least partially surrounding relation of the bore 32. Although not shown in the drawings, but as described in the incorporated disclosures, exemplary arrangements include resilient seals that operatively extend between the piston and the walls of the valve body that extend radially inward toward the bore. The resilient seals are operative to prevent fluid flow between the radially outwardly disposed annular surfaces of the piston and the annular radially inward extending walls bounding the flow cavities and fluid passages of the valve body. In exemplary arrangements, the seals are configured to prevent fluid flow other than through flow cavities and fluid passages that are in operative fluid connection through the selective longitudinal positioning of the piston as described herein.

In an exemplary arrangement, the piston 34 is in operative connection with a piston rod 46. The piston rod 46 is operatively connected to the second longitudinal end of the piston. The exemplary piston rod is operatively connected to the piston through a releasable threaded connection as shown. In the exemplary arrangement threaded connection includes a coupling with fluid openings therethrough that enables the flow of liquid through the longitudinal flow passage. The coupling also enables the piston to be removed and replaced with a piston of a different configuration.

The exemplary piston rod extends through an opening 48 in the valve body. A suitable resilient seal is provided adjacent the opening so as to prevent the escape of liquid from the inside of the valve body around the piston rod. The piston rod is operatively connected at the end outside the valve body to an actuator bracket 50. The actuator bracket 50 is in operative connection with a valve controller of a type later described herein and/or as described in the incorporated disclosures. The valve controller includes a motor that is operative to selectively longitudinally move the actuator bracket and the piston rod so as to selectively position the piston to provide different flow conditions.

The exemplary valve body includes a plurality of ports. The ports include an inlet port 52 which is designated with the letter A for purposes of brevity. The exemplary inlet port is in operative connection with a source of untreated water. In exemplary arrangements, the source of untreated water may be a well, reservoir or other source of water that requires the treatment provided by passing the water through the water treatment material tank. In exemplary arrangements the untreated water is provided at an elevated pressure to the inlet port 52. This is accomplished through the use of a pump, the head of liquid in a tank or reservoir, or other suitable method for providing the water to the inlet port at a positive pressure. As represented schematically in Figures, the inlet port A is in operative fluid connection with an annular flow cavity 53 within the valve body.

The exemplary valve body further includes an outlet port 54. Outlet port 54 which is designated B for purposes of brevity, is configured to be in operative connection with one or more devices that use treated water. For example, the outlet port 54 may be fluidly connected to a piping system within the building in which the water treatment equipment is installed. In such an exemplary system the outlet port B is in operative connection with treated water use devices such as faucets, showers, hot water tanks, etc. which deliver, store and/or use water that has been treated by having passed through the tank. Of course this application is exemplary. As represented in the Figures, the outlet port B is in operative fluid connection through at least one fluid passage with an annular flow cavity 55 within the valve body that is longitudinally disposed from the annular cavity in the valve body that is connected to Port A.

The exemplary valve body further includes a drain port 56. Drain port 56 which is designated C for purposes of brevity is configured in the exemplary system to be in operative connection with a drain which receives waste water. The drain port 56 is in operative connection through at least one fluid passage with an annular flow cavity 57 within the valve body as represented in the Figures. Further it should be understood that although the drain port C is configured to be in connection with a wastewater drain, the water passed from the exemplary drain port may be captured for treatment and recycling or for other suitable purposes.

The exemplary valve body further includes a first tank port 58. The first tank port 58 is labeled D for purposes of brevity herein. In the exemplary arrangement the first tank port D is fluidly connected through the valve to a first area at the top of a tank. In this arrangement this first area is on an upper side of the resin material 20 in the tank. In the exemplary arrangement the first tank port 58 is above the level of the resin material 20 as shown. Of course it should be understood that this arrangement is exemplary and other arrangements of components may be used in connection with other valve and system arrangements.

The exemplary valve body further includes a second tank port 60. The second tank port 60 which is labeled E for purposes of brevity, is in operative connection with the tube conduit 24 within the tube 22. In this exemplary arrangement the second tank port 60 is in operative fluid connection with the lower area of the tank through an opening at the bottom end 28 of the tube and the strainer 30. The second tank port 60 is in operative fluid connection with the lower side of the resin material.

The exemplary valve body further includes a further port that in the exemplary system shown is referred to as brine port 62. Brine port 62 which is labeled F for purposes of brevity, is configured for operative connection with a brine tank. The brine tank of the exemplary arrangement may provide a slurry of water softener salt and water which produces a brine solution which is utilized for regenerating the resin material in the tank in a manner that is later discussed. The exemplary brine port 62 is in operative connection with a movable valve member 64. The movable valve member 64 is movable within the valve body and depending on the position of the movable valve member, is operative to place the brine port 62 in fluid connection with at least one fluid cavity within the valve body. In the exemplary arrangement a moveable plunger 66 is in operative connection with the at least one movable valve member 64. A spring 68 is in operative connection with the plunger and serves to bias the plunger upwardly from the valve body as shown so as to close the valve member 64. As later explained in detail, the valve controller is operative to selectively move the plunger 66 so as to operatively connect the brine port to fluid passages and flow cavities within the valve body for purposes of delivering treated water out of the valve from the brine port and for receiving brine material from the brine tank.

In the exemplary arrangement the valve includes an injector 71. The injector 71 is positioned in a passage 75. The injector further includes a check valve 73. The check valve 73 enables flow from the injector to the flow cavity 44 and prevents flow in the opposite direction. In the exemplary arrangement the injector is removably positionable in the passage 75.

The exemplary valve body further includes a passage 59. In the configuration shown in FIG. 1 , the passage 59 is closed by a removable plug 61.

The exemplary valve body further includes a passage 65. Passage 65 is fluidly connected with annular cavity 55. The valve body further includes a chamber 69. Chamber 69 is in fluid communication with passage 65. A screen 67 is positioned fluidly intermediate of the passage 65 and the chamber 69. Chamber 69 is in fluid connection with the injector 71.

The exemplary arrangement of the control valve operates in an exemplary system in a manner similar to that described in greater detail in the incorporated disclosures. A valve controller that is in operative connection and with the actuator bracket moves the bracket along the longitudinal direction which is the vertical direction as shown in FIG. 1 and selectively positions the piston to achieve a plurality of flow conditions along different flow paths through fluid passages of the valve. In an exemplary first condition of the valve represented in FIG. 1 , untreated water is received into the valve through the inlet A. Water passes through the valve cavities of the piston and the valve body as represented by the arrows shown in FIG. 1 . The untreated water is in fluid connection through the valve with the first tank port D. In this flow condition the check valve 73 prevents flow of untreated water through the injector 71 to cavity 55 and the outlet B. Untreated water flows from the first tank port downward through the top of the tank and into the resin material 20. In some exemplary arrangements the top of the tank may include a gas such as air or oxygen to react with materials dissolved in the incoming water to produce reaction products that can be more readily separated from the water. In the exemplary arrangement the water passing through the resin material undergoes an ion exchange in which calcium, magnesium and other positively charged ions in the water are captured by the resin and replaced in the water with sodium ions which are present in the resin.

In the service condition shown in FIG. 1 the water that has been treated by passing downward through the resin passes through the strainer 30 and travels upwardly through the tube conduit 24 to the second tank port E. From this position the now treated water passes through the valve body from the second tank port E to the treated water outlet port B. The treated water is passed from the water outlet B to piping and to the devices which use the treated water. In the exemplary arrangement the valve controller operates the valve to deliver treated water from the brine port F of the valve to the brine tank at selected appropriate times. This is done in the exemplary system so that the brine solution is available for delivery to the valve 10 and the resin material 20 when required. In order to provide available brine, the valve controller is operative to depress plunger 66 downward as represented by arrow P as shown in FIG. 2 . Moving the plunger downward is operative to move the movable valve member 64. Movement of the valve member 64 enables water that has been treated by passing through the resin and received at the second tank port E to be passed out of the valve through the brine port F.

In this valve configuration, the treated water passes through the passage 65, through the screen 67 and into the chamber 69. From the chamber 69 the water flows into the interior of the body of the injector 71 (later described in detail) and to the brine port F past the open valve element 64. It should be noted that the check valve 73 prevents the flow of untreated water into the body of the injector 71. Further, passage 59 which has a configuration similar to the passage which includes the injector body 71, is fluidly blocked by the plug 61 so as to require treated water to flow through the passage 65, the screen 67 and chamber 69 into the injector body.

In the exemplary system treated water is passed out through the brine port for a sufficient time to enable production of suitable brine solution by mixing of the water with water softener salt that has been placed in the brine tank. The production of the brine and the measurement of the salt levels and other features associated with the brine tank are discussed in the incorporated disclosures. As can be appreciated from FIG. 2 , with the piston 34 positioned as shown, while treated water is being delivered to the brine tank the exemplary valve continues to deliver treated water from the second tank port E of the tank to the water outlet B.

After a period of operation of the exemplary system, the amount of water that has been treated by passing through the resin material causes the ions in the resin material to change their character to the point that the undesirable calcium and magnesium ions in the untreated water are no longer satisfactorily replaced through the ion exchange with the more desirable sodium ions. When this condition occurs, the resin treatment material can be cleaned and regenerated in the manner discussed in the incorporated disclosures and as described herein, so as to return the resin material to satisfactory performance. In various arrangements the need to regenerate the resin may be determined on a timed basis, on the basis of the amount of water that has passed through the tank, or based upon sensing the properties of the treated water that has been delivered from the outlet B through suitable electronic sensors. As can be appreciated, in exemplary systems while the resin in the water softener is being regenerated, treated water may be supplied to the devices and systems that use treated water from a storage tank holding a supply of treated water or by treating the water with another water treatment device.

Operation of the exemplary valve in a first step in a treatment media regeneration process is represented in FIG. 3 . As shown in FIG. 3 , the piston 34 of the valve is moved so as to be disposed upward from the positions shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 . This is done in the exemplary arrangement by a motor of the valve controller moving the piston in the longitudinal direction by movement of the actuator bracket 50 and the piston rod 46.

Movement of the piston 34 to the position shown in FIG. 3 causes the inlet and outlet ports A and B of the valve to be in fluid connection with the second tank port E. Further in this position of the piston, the first tank port D is in operative connection through the valve body with the drain C. As represented by the water flow arrows shown in FIG. 3 , the untreated water at the elevated pressure and some treated water which can be drawn back through the water outlet B, pass through the valve to the second tank port E and downward through the tube 22. The water passes through the bottom of the tube and outwardly through the strainer. The water is dispersed and flows upwardly through the resin 20 so as to backwash the resin. The backwash or backflush represents a reversal from the normal flow during water treatment and causes particles and other materials that have been captured in the resin to flow upward in the tank.

The water flowing upward in the tank flows into the first tank port D and through the valve body to the drain C. As a result, the particulates and other contaminants that can be dislodged and removed by backwashing the resin are caused to flow out the top of the tank, through the valve and are discharged to a suitable waste drain through the drain port C. The backwash portion of the cycle continues for a suitable time in accordance with the programming of the valve controller or associated control device to achieve the release of the majority of the particulates and contaminants that have been captured in the resin material. The backwash operation may be continued on a timed or other basis sufficient to complete the operation.

At the conclusion of the backwash function, the exemplary valve controller is operative to change the condition of the valve to that shown in FIG. 4 . In the position of the piston 34 shown in FIG. 4 , water under higher pressure from the inlet A as well as water pulled from the outlet B passes through the valve body to the first tank port D. In this condition, the exemplary valve controller is operative to depress the plunger 66 and move the movable valve member 64 so as to open a flow path in the valve body. This causes the brine port F to enable brine solution to be received by the valve from the brine tank, into the flow of water as it moves through the valve body and to the first tank port D at the top of the tank. In exemplary arrangements brine delivered to the brine port F may be pressurized through operation of a pump or similar device so as to facilitate the delivery of the brine into the valve body. In other arrangements, the brine may be moved into the flow of water through venturi action or other suitable action which is suitable for causing the brine to be moved into the brine port F and mixed in the water that is flowing through the flow cavities of the valve body 12.

In the exemplary arrangement, treated water flows through the passage 65 and the screen 67 into the chamber 69. From the chamber, the water flows through an opening 63 and into the interior of the body of the injector 71. The incoming brine from brine port F mixes with the water in the interior of the injector body and flows in the direction in which flow is permitted past the check valve 73 at the inward end of the injector 71. Once the brine containing water passes the check valve 73, it flows through an interior passage of the valve to the first tank port D.

In the position of the exemplary valve and valve controller represented in FIG. 4 , water including the fresh water softener salt solution passes through the area at the top of the tank and passes downward into the resin material 20. The ions from the brine material flow into and migrate in the resin material, regenerating the supply of sodium ions therein and displacing the calcium, magnesium and other ions currently bonded to the resin particles therein. The water and the ions that are displaced from the resin material pass through the strainer 30 at the bottom of the tube 22 and flow upwardly to the second tank port E at the bottom of the valve. In this position of the valve piston 34 the water passing upwardly through the tube 22 passes through the longitudinal flow cavity 38 of the piston, through the flow cavity at the top of the valve body and out the drain port C. As a result, undesirable material is washed out of the resin and moved to the drain port.

The condition of the valve represented in FIG. 4 is maintained through operation of the valve controller for a period of time sufficient to draw an amount of brine into the tank that will regenerate the resin. Thereafter the exemplary valve controller operates to cause the plunger 66 to no longer be positioned to cause the movable valve member 64 to enable brine to enter the valve body through the brine port F. As represented in FIG. 5 , the valve controller changes the position of piston 34 such that untreated water from the inlet A and water otherwise received from the outlet B pass through the valve body to the first tank port D. The check valve 73 of the injector 71 prevents flow to chamber 69 through the injector. The water which no longer has the new brine mixed therein passes downwardly through the bed of resin material 20 through the strainer and into the tube conduit 24 within the tube 22.

In this condition of the exemplary valve, the water from the tube conduit passes upwardly through the tube 22 and the second tank port E, through the longitudinal flow cavity 38 in the piston and outwardly to the drain port C of the valve body. Such flow through the resin provides a rinse function which is operative to cause any remaining regenerate brine material in excess of that which is captured within the resin material to be rinsed out and passed to the drain. The condition of the valve shown in FIG. 5 is maintained through operation of the valve controller for a sufficient time to clear the excess regenerate material from the tank. This may be done in some arrangements on a timed basis or other basis sufficient to accomplish the function.

Generally after regenerating the resin material as just described, the exemplary valve is returned by the valve controller to the flow condition which is shown in FIG. 1 . In this condition, untreated water enters the inlet A of the valve body, passes through the valve body to the first tank port D. The water then passes through the resin 20 where it undergoes water treatment to remove undesirable materials and ion exchange is accomplished. The treated water then passes upwardly through the tube 22 to the second tank port E. The treated water then passes out of the valve body through the outlet B through which it is delivered to the water distribution system in the building and the water use devices. Generally the valve remains in this condition until the cycle for regenerating the resin material needs to be repeated.

It should be noted that in the exemplary arrangement the position of the piston 34 in the rinse position of the valve shown in FIG. 5 , is immediately linearly longitudinally adjacent to the piston position 34 when the valve is in its usual service mode of operation in which untreated water is treated by flowing through the resin in the resin in the tank 14. This configuration minimizes the introduction of untreated water or other undesirable material when the condition of the valve is changed between the last step in which the remaining regenerate material is rinsed and removed from the tank, and the valve causes the system to go back into normal service mode. Of course it should be understood that this approach is exemplary and in other arrangements other approaches may be used.

The exemplary control valve 10 further provides the function of a valve shutoff which in this exemplary arrangement separates the water treatment tank 14 from the untreated water inlet A. This function can avoid the need for an external shutoff valve to prevent untreated water from flowing to the control valve and the tank.

FIG. 6 represents the condition of the exemplary valve 10 in a shutoff condition. As can be appreciated in the exemplary system when it is desired to shut off the flow of untreated water to the valve and to the tank, the valve controller operates to cause the piston 34 to be axially moved to the position shown in FIG. 6 . In this position of the piston 34, the flow of untreated water into the inlet A is stopped by the position of the piston in which the annular flow cavities then connected to the inlet are not open to any other flow cavities within the valve.

As represented in FIG. 6 , the first tank port D is likewise in communication with a flow cavity within the valve that is not fluidly connected to any other flow cavity. In this position of the piston, the water outlet B is in operative connection with the second tank port E. Water pressure is effectively maintained at the outlet B unless a water use device is turned on which reduces such pressure. As a result, flow is effectively discontinued on a selective basis through actuation of the valve controller. Of course it should be understood that this particular configuration is exemplary and in other arrangements, other configurations may be utilized for purposes of shutting off the flow between the water inlet A and the water outlet B.

A further feature of the exemplary arrangement of valve 10 when used in the exemplary water treatment system is the ability to operate the valve controller to allow incoming water to bypass the water treatment tank 14. For example in an exemplary system there are some situations such as when delivering water to an external spigot to wash off a sidewalk, irrigate plants and the like, when it may not matter that the water is untreated. Further in some situations the amount of water required for a particular activity may be relatively large compared to the amount of water that is used in circumstances where it is highly desirable for the water to be treated by having been treated by having passed through the tank 14.

In situations where it is desirable to deliver untreated water for use by a particular device, the exemplary valve controller may be operated to cause the piston 34 in the valve 10 to be moved to the longitudinal position shown in FIG. 7 . In this piston position, untreated water which is delivered at the inlet A is passed through the valve body directly to the outlet B without passing through the resin material 20 in the tank. In this way, the untreated water is provided to the water use devices for as long as untreated water is desired. After the activity is accomplished for which the untreated water will be used, suitable signals can be delivered to the valve controller to cause the motor of the controller to cause the motor of the controller to return the valve condition to that shown in FIG. 1 in which the water is again treated by passing through the tank.

Of course it should be understood that the valve configuration of valve 10 shown is exemplary and in other arrangements other valve configurations having different valve body arrangements, valve fluid passages, valve element configurations, ports and other structures may be utilized. Further, while the exemplary arrangement has been described in connection with a water treatment process, other arrangements may be utilized in connection with other types of fluid treatment equipment and processes.

The exemplary arrangement of the valve controller includes features that enable the valve controller housing to be readily installed in connection with the valve. Further this exemplary construction enables the valve controller to be readily replaced or serviced.

An exemplary arrangement of the valve controller 70 is represented in FIGS. 8 and 9 . The exemplary valve controller is operative to selectively move the actuator bracket 50 and the piston rod 46 to position the piston 34 longitudinally within the valve body 12 in the manner previously discussed herein. The actuator 70 may include the features and devices of the incorporated disclosures so as to carry out this function. Of course it should be appreciated that in other arrangements, other types of structures, devices and mechanisms may be utilized for purposes of providing selectively controlled movement and positioning of one or more valve elements.

In the exemplary arrangement of the controller 70 shown, a valve base 72 is configured to be in operative connection with the valve body 12 of the valve 10. A valve controller housing 74 is configured to be selectively engageable with the valve base and placed in an operative position in which the valve controller may change the condition of the valve. The valve controller housing 74 is also configured to be readily disengageable from the valve base for reconfiguration, replacement or repair.

In the exemplary arrangement, the valve controller housing and the valve base include interengaging projections and slots to provide for the secure engagement and selective disengagement of the valve base and housing. Although it should be understood that the interengaging projections and slots may be in fixed connection with either of the engageable components, in the exemplary arrangement shown the valve base includes a pair of elongated rail projections 76. The pair of elongated rail projections 76 extend on opposed sides of the piston rod 46 and extend generally perpendicular to the longitudinal direction in which the piston rod is moveable.

The exemplary elongated rail projections are configured to be engaged in captured relation by elongated recessed slots 78. Elongated slots 78 extend in portions of the valve controller housing 74. The exemplary slots 78 are configured such that the rails 76 once extended therein are captured and immovable in all directions except along the direction of the rail projections designated by arrows R in FIG. 8 . The secure engagement of the projections and slots may be achieved in different arrangements by interengaging tabs, flanges or other structures on the projections and slots which only enable such items to be engaged and disengaged by movement along the direction of arrows R.

The exemplary valve controller housing 74 shown further includes a pair of deformable members 80. Deformable members 80 each terminate at a hook 82. Each hook 82 is configured to engage and hold tabs 84 that are operatively connected with at least one wall when the valve controller housing is in the operative position as shown in FIG. 9 . It should be understood, however, that the hook and tab configuration shown is exemplary and in other arrangements, the configuration may be reversed such that the hooks are included in engagement with the valve base and the structures for engaging the hooks are included on the valve controller housing. Further, other structures may be utilized for selectively holding and releasing the valve base and valve controller housing in the operative position.

In the exemplary arrangement, the actuator bracket 50 is configured to be readily operatively engaged with and disengaged from the structures which operate to selectively move the actuator bracket which are part of the valve controller housing. In the exemplary arrangement, the actuator bracket 50 includes a longitudinally elongated guide yoke portion 86. Guide yoke portion 86 includes a longitudinally elongated guide slot 88. The exemplary actuator bracket is further configured to include an actuator recess 90. Actuator recess 90 includes an elongated actuator slot that is elongated in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction.

In an exemplary arrangement, the guide slot 88 in the guide yoke portion is configured to accept a guide pin 92 on the housing in movable relation therein. In the exemplary arrangement, the valve controller housing 74 includes a pair of deformable holding projections 94. The holding projections are spaced apart in symmetric relation relative to guide pin 92 and are sized to enable the guide yoke portion 86 to extend in movable relation between the holding projections. In the exemplary arrangement shown, each of the holding projections includes an angled hook end 96. Hook ends 96 of the holding projections 94 extend in facing relation and are configured to enable the guide yoke portion to be moved between the holding projections and held between the projections by the hook ends. As a result, the guide yoke portion is enabled to move in a longitudinal direction while positioned between the holding projections and in guided relation in the longitudinal direction by the guide pin 92. Further the hook ends 96 serve to prevent the guide yoke portion from moving out of the area between the holding projections and being disengaged from the guide pin.

It should be understood that this approach is exemplary and in other arrangements, one or more guide pins may be positioned on an actuator bracket which engage with slots or other openings in the housing. Further other structures may be utilized for engaging the actuator bracket or similar structures in releasable movable connection.

Further in the exemplary arrangement, the actuator recess 90 is configured to receive therein an actuator pin 98. Actuator pin 98 of the exemplary arrangement is operative to be selectively moved in an arcuate path responsive to operation of the valve controller 70. In the exemplary arrangement, the actuator pin 98 is positioned on a rotatable member that is selectively rotated so as to control the relative vertical position of the actuator pin, and thus control the movement and longitudinal position of the piston 34 through longitudinal movement of the actuator bracket 50.

In the exemplary arrangement, the actuator pin is selectively moved in an arcuate path which causes the pin 98 to move relatively transversely within the actuator recess 90. The selective positioning of the actuator pin 98 along its arcuate path as determined through operation of the valve controller 70 is usable to selectively position the actuator bracket 50 and the piston 34 in operative connection therewith, in the desired axial positions to achieve the desired flow conditions through the valve.

Further, the exemplary arrangement enables the bracket to be readily operatively disengaged from the valve controller housing 74. As can be appreciated, disengagement of the deformable members 80 from the tabs allows relative movement of the valve base 72 and the valve controller housing 74 along the direction of arrow R and in an opposed direction from when the base and housing are being engaged. In the exemplary arrangement shown, the holding projections 94 are movable and deformable to enable the hook ends 96 to release the guide yoke portion 86 of the bracket 50 from being held in intermediate relation of the holding projections 94. In addition, in the exemplary arrangement the actuator pin 98 may be moved out of the elongated actuator slot 90. Thus the actuator housing and the components attached thereto may be readily disengaged from the valve base 72. Thereafter a new valve controller housing 74 may be readily engaged with the valve base 72 and the actuator bracket 50. Such replacement may be done for repair or maintenance purposes. Alternatively an alternative valve actuator housing may be installed to provide additional or different features and functions for operation of the valve and related components such as the exemplary water treatment system. For example a valve controller that operates based on wired connections with other system components may be replaced with a valve controller that communicates wirelessly with other components, and vice versa. Alternatively the valve controller may be replaced to convert the valve and associated equipment to operate via a different method of operation. Of course it should be understood that these approaches are exemplary and in other arrangements, other approaches may be used.

Further in the exemplary arrangement as shown in FIG. 9 the valve controller housing 74 includes a rotatable member 100 which includes cam surfaces 102 thereon. The cam surfaces 102 are configured to operatively engage the plunger 66 and displace the plunger so as to control the movement of the movable valve member 64 within the valve body. In the exemplary arrangement the rotatable member 100 and cam surfaces 102 are configured so that the valve controller housing 74 can be disengaged from the valve base 72 without interference with the plunger member 66. This further facilitates the ready installation and replacement of the valve controller housing. As can be appreciated, the exemplary valve controller includes a pair of cam surfaces 102 which enables opening the movable valve member twice during a single rotation of the rotatable member. This may correspond, for example, to operation of the valve and its associated equipment in connection with a method that requires opening of the movable valve element 64 two times during a particular operation cycle such as the one previously described. Of course it should be understood that in other arrangements, different numbers of cam surfaces may be utilized. Further other exemplary arrangements may include valves with additional valve elements and cam members so as to enable the introduction of other liquids and fluids into the valve at various selected cycle times during operation of the valve and the associated equipment.

As represented in FIG. 9 , the exemplary valve controller includes a motor 104. The motor 104 is in operative connection with a transmission generally referred to as 106. The transmission of the exemplary arrangement includes a plurality of connected gears or similar motion transmission devices that are selectively moved through operation of the motor 104. The transmission 106 of the exemplary arrangement is operative to move the actuator pin 98, rotatable member 100 and other structures which control the positioning of the valve components in a coordinated manner so as to achieve the desired coordinated operation of the valve structures. Further the exemplary valve controller shown includes an encoder 108. The encoder 108 moves in coordinated relation with one or more components of the transmission. One or more sensors (such as an optical sensor) is in operative connection with the encoder through operation of control circuitry such as is described in the incorporated disclosures. The encoder and associated sensor or sensors may be utilized to determine the then current status and/or position of the valve components so as to enable the valve controller to selectively move the various components associated with the valve in the desired manner. Of course it should be understood that the transmission, motor, encoder and other structures of the valve controller shown are exemplary and in other arrangements, other types of valve controller arrangements may be utilized.

FIG. 10 shows schematically an alternative arrangement of a control valve generally indicated 110. Control valve 110 is generally similar to control valve 10 previously described except as otherwise mentioned. Control valve 110 corresponds to a control valve that has been reconfigured so as to enable the carrying out of different functional processes as discussed herein.

Control valve 110 includes a valve body 112. Valve body 112 is configured for operative attachment to the water treatment tank 114. This may be for example by releasable threaded connection. In exemplary arrangements valve body 112 may be identical to body 12. Like the previously described water treatment tank, the exemplary tank has a top portion 116 and a bottom portion 118. The exemplary tank houses water treatment material such as a resin material 120. The resin material may be one of the types like those previously described. Of course other types of water treatment materials or combinations of materials may be used in other arrangements. Further it should be understood that the water treatment process performed using the control valve is merely one example of an application process for the particular control valve arrangement.

The exemplary water treatment tank includes therein a tube 122 which provides a conduit 124 between the top and bottom portions of the tank. The top end of the tube 126 is operatively connected to the valve body 112. The bottom end of the tube 128 is in operative connection with a strainer 130.

Similar to the previously described control valve 10, the valve body 112 includes a generally cylindrical, longitudinally extending bore 132. A piston 134 is selectively movable in the longitudinal direction (alternatively referred to as the axial direction) within the bore 132. It should be noted that the exemplary piston 134 has the same configuration as piston 34 of the previously described arrangement. As in the prior arrangement the exemplary valve is configured to enable the piston to be changeable. Of course in other arrangements other types of valve elements such as balls, gates, sliders or rods may be used to selectively enable liquid flow through fluid passages in the valve body.

As discussed in connection with the previously described arrangement, piston 134 includes a plurality of annular recesses which define annular flow cavities 136. Annular flow cavities also generally surround the bore and are longitudinally spaced within the body of the valve. Piston 134 also includes a longitudinal flow cavity therethrough 138. Piston 134 includes a first longitudinal end 140 and a second longitudinal end 142. As in the case with the previously described arrangement, the second longitudinal end includes a threaded portion which is releasibly engageable with a coupling 144. The coupling 144 of the exemplary arrangement provides for operative releasable connection of the piston 134 and a piston rod 146. As with the prior arrangement, the coupling 144 enables fluid to flow therethrough through the longitudinal flow cavity 138 of the piston.

In the exemplary arrangement associated with the control valve 110, the piston 146 is in operative connection with an actuator bracket 150. Actuator bracket 150 is configured to be moved by a motor of a valve controller which may be similar to the valve controller 70 previously discussed. Of course it should be understood that in other arrangements, other types of valve controllers may be used.

Like previously described control valve 10, control valve 110 further includes an inlet port 152 which is labeled A for purposes of brevity herein. The valve also includes an outlet port 154 labeled B. The exemplary valve further includes a drain port 156 labeled C. Valve 110 further includes a first tank port 158 labeled D and a second tank port 160 labeled E. The exemplary valve 110 further includes a brine port 162 (labeled F). The brine port F similar to the previously described arrangement, is connected to a fluid passage within the valve which is opened and closed through selective movement of a movable valve member 164. The movable valve member 164 is moved between open and closed positions through movement of a plunger 166 which is biased toward the valve member closing position by a spring 168. As is the case with the prior described arrangement, the plunger 166 may be selectively moved between the open and closed positions of the valve through operation of the valve controller. This may be done by engagement with cam surfaces such as cam surfaces 102 previously described. Of course in other arrangements, other approaches may be used.

Similar to the previously described valve, valve 110 includes a flow passage 165 which is fluidly connected to a chamber 169. A screen 167 is positioned such that fluid passes through the screen 167 to reach the chamber 169.

Valve 110 includes a passage 170 similar to passage 59 that is disposed below the passage 165 as shown and a further passage 172 similar to passage 75 that is disposed above passage 165. An injector 171 that may be similar to injector 71 is positioned in passage 170. The injector 171 includes a check valve 194. A plug 174 which may be similar to the plug 61 of the previously described arrangement is positioned in passage 172. In the exemplary arrangement a fluid passage that is not separately shown extends between the passage 172 and passage 170. This fluid passage is separate from the fluid passage 165 and enables the brine port F to communicate with both passages 170 and 172. In this exemplary arrangement, the plug 174 positioned in the passage 172 enables the brine port F to be in communication with the passage 170 and the injector 171. This enables the injector body to be in fluid communication with the brine port when the valve member 164 is open.

In the exemplary valve 110 a removable cover 176 closes the chamber 169. In the exemplary arrangement suitable sealing elements such as gaskets and fastening members such as screws are provided to enable holding the cover to the rest of the valve body and for maintaining the chamber 169 in fluid tight engagement therewith. In the exemplary arrangement the cover 176 enables selectively accessing the passages 170 and 172 as well as the plug and injector that may be positioned therein. This enables the exemplary valve 110 to be configured such that the injector may be selectively positioned in either one of the fluid passages 170 or 172. Likewise the plug 174 can be selectively positioned in the other one of the passages 170 or 172 in which the injector 171 is not currently positioned.

FIGS. 11 and 12 are cutaway views of the portion of the valve body 112 and the passages 170 and 172. In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 , the injector 171 is shown positioned in passage 172 while the plug 174 is positioned in passage 170. This corresponds to the configuration of the injector and plug shown in valve 10 that has the positions of the injector and plug reversed from that shown in valve 110. Thus as can be appreciated, the exemplary arrangement of valve 110 enables a person assembling the valve initially to selectively position the injector body 171 and plug 174 in either passage 170 or passage 172 as is appropriate for the operation of the particular control valve. Further this exemplary configuration may enable a service technician or person modifying the valve to remove the cover and change the positions of the injector body and the plug so as to modify the operational capabilities of the valve. Further in other alternative arrangements the valve may be configured to have plugs positioned in both of the passages 170 and 172. This might be done, for example, to have a valve that operates not to have brine solution or other material introduced into the liquid that passes through the valve. Alternatively in still other arrangements injectors or other elements may be positioned in both of the fluid passages. This might be done, for example, in valve configurations where in multiple positions of the piston, it is desirable to introduce brine solution or other material into the liquid flow.

It should also be appreciated that alternative arrangements may be utilized in connection a valve configuration like that described. For example, check valves or other arrangements may be utilized so as to allow fluid flow in an opposite direction from that permitted by the check valve of the injector so that fluid may be enabled to flow into the chamber 169 in certain longitudinal positions of the piston for producing a desired flow path. Further in other alternative arrangements, the chamber 169 may have multiple segregated areas so as to be in connection with additional ports or flow paths through the valve. Such capabilities may provide additional flow alternatives to the valve which enable the valve to provide additional capabilities. As can be appreciated, those skilled in the art can develop numerous changeable valve configurations suitable for different processes and equipment from the description provided herein.

Further in the exemplary arrangement the plug 174 includes disposed annular seals 178 and 180. These disposed annular seals are comprised of resilient material that engage the adjacent walls of the flow passage so as to provide fluid tight engagement therewith. However, as can be appreciated, the body portion 182 of the plug 174 that extends between the seals is spaced inwardly from the annular wall bounding the passage 170. This provides the capability for fluid to occupy and flow in the area between the annular wall bounding the passage and the body portion 182 without the fluid being able to flow directly into the chamber 169 or the passage 184 which can fluidly connect with the area adjacent to the second tank port 160. As can be appreciated, this exemplary construction of the plug 174 when positioned in the passage 172 as represented in FIG. 10 enables the brine solution which enters the passage 172 to flow around the body portion 182 of the plug member and into the chamber 170 to reach the injector 171.

As also shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 , the exemplary injector 171 includes disposed annular resilient seals 186, 188 and 190 which engage in sealing relation the adjacent annular wall bounding the passage 172. The exemplary injector includes a liquid inlet 192 similar to opening 63 at a first end, and an outlet from the check valve 194 at the opposed end. In the exemplary arrangement the seals 186 and 188 bound an area 198 which can be filled with the brine solution which is received therein when the valve member 164 is open. Brine in the area 198 is drawn through openings 200 in the injector body as liquid flows therethrough. This causes the brine solution to be mixed with the liquid as it flows through the injector body in the manner previously discussed. Treated water can also be delivered from area 198 to the port F in an appropriate valve condition like that previously discussed. Of course it should be understood that this injector configuration is exemplary and in other valve and system arrangements, other approaches and configurations may be used.

In the exemplary system used in conjunction with valve 110 and shown in FIG. 10 , the valve may be operated in conjunction with the water treatment tank in a manner similar to that previously described in connection with valve 10. However, in this exemplary arrangement, the selective positioning of the piston 134 by the valve controller associated with the valve enables the regeneration of the resin material 120 housed in the tank 114 via the upward flow of the brine solution rather than via a downward flow of the brine solution such as is described in connection with the operation of valve 10 and represented in FIG. 4 . In the prior described example of the system used in connection with valve 10, the brine solution acts to regenerate the resin material housed in the tank by flowing from the upper surface thereof and to the bottom area and out the tube 22. In the operation of valve 110, regeneration is accomplished by distributing the brine solution initially from the bottom end of the tube 128 and having the solution migrate radially outwardly from the strainer and upwardly through the resin so as to provide for regeneration thereof. This may be more effective for some resin materials or tank configurations. Further it should be appreciated that because in some exemplary arrangements the piston 134 and valve body 112 may be identical to piston 34 and valve body 12 respectively, the change in capability from downflow regeneration to upflow regeneration may be accomplished by changing the respective positions of the injector and the plug within the valve body and changing the programming associated with the controller so that the controller positions the piston in a different position (e.g. the position shown in FIG. 4 for downflow and the position shown in FIG. 10 for upflow). This is useful in that the need for servicers and installers to have a stock of different valves for upflow and downflow regeneration can be avoided.

As can be appreciated, the method for configuring the exemplary valve for either upflow or downflow regeneration includes removing the cover 176 to access the chamber 169. The injector 171 and the plug 174 are positioned in the passages 170, 172 in the manner appropriate for the regeneration approach desired for the unit. The cover 176 is then installed to fluidly seal chamber 169. The valve controller 70 is programmed via one or more inputs through an appropriate input device such as a laptop or handheld computer, which inputs controller executable instructions that cause the piston to move to the appropriate position for the regeneration approach to be used. Further these method steps can be used to change the regeneration approach of an existing unit. This capability of the exemplary arrangements to be configured as desired without the need to change valve bodies, pistons or actuators can be useful and cost effective.

In the exemplary operation of the valve 110, the valve is enabled to operate in a manner similar to that discussed in connection with valve 10 and is represented in FIGS. 1-3 and 5-7 .

It should be appreciated that in the exemplary arrangement, the plug 174 is configured so that treated water can be directed out of the brine port F in a manner similar to that described in FIG. 2 due to the configuration of the plug and the annular flow chamber which extends around the central body portion 182 thereof. As a result, treated water is enabled to be delivered from the area 198 of the injector body, to the brine port and into a brine tank holding material so as to produce a brine solution which can later be introduced to regenerate the resin in a manner like that discussed in connection with the prior arrangement.

When the resin material 120 in the water treatment tank 114 is to be regenerated, the piston 134 is moved to the position shown in FIG. 10 . In this position, brine solution produced in the brine tank is drawn into the brine port F due to the opening of the movable valve element 164. The brine is drawn through the annular chamber around the central body portion 182 of the plug 174 and passes through the fluid passage into the area 198 of the injector body 171. Water flows from the inlet A through the passage 165 and into the chamber 169. From the chamber 169, the water flows through the injector body 171 where it is mixed with the brine solution and passes downwardly through the tube 122. The regenerate brine laden water then passes through the bottom of the tube 128 through the strainer and upwardly through the resin material 120 where it replaces the ions of contaminants that have been removed from the water previously treated. The released ions and other contaminants flow upwardly through the first tank port D and out through the drain C of the valve. This process is carried out for a sufficient time so as to regenerate the capabilities of the resin to remove undesirable materials from water which is passed therethrough after completion of the resin regeneration cycle. Of course it should be understood that these approaches and configurations are exemplary and in other arrangements, other configurations and process approaches may be utilized. Further it may be appreciated that the water treatment application for valve 110 and the structures and elements described in connection therewith is only one of many exemplary applications in which such elements and structures may be used.

FIGS. 13-14 and the incorporated disclosures show exemplary arrangements of a liquid treatment system 700 that uses oxidation and filtration in which contaminants are first oxidized so that they can be removed by filtration. The exemplary system is used for treating water. As shown in FIG. 13 , the exemplary treatment system 700 includes a generally enclosed tank 702. The interior of the tank 702 includes a flow distributor plate 704 that supports liquid treatment material comprising filtration media 706 supported upon the distributor plate 704. The filtration media 706 may include any suitable media that can filter and remove contaminants such as oxides of iron, magnesium, or sulfur. Sorbing structures which in an exemplary arrangement include bodies in the shape of balls 708 are provided in the upper area of the tank on top of the filtration media 706. These mass transfer balls 708 provide aeration and attract iron and other contaminants in the water and enhance oxidation and removal of the iron and other contaminants from the untreated water. The oxidation zone in the tank 702 includes a pocket or head of air 709 located in an upper area of the tank that extends above the media and includes the area of the balls 708. A control valve 710 is mounted to the top of the tank 702. The control valve may be similar to control valve 10 and the control valves described in the incorporated disclosures.

A venturi type air injector nozzle assembly 712 is provided to introduce air into the tank 702. As depicted in FIG. 14 , the exemplary air injector assembly 712 includes an external body 714 and a threaded fitting 716. The threaded fitting 716 is threadily fastened into a threaded opening 718 near the top of the tank 702. An elastomeric seal 720 is fastened on the exterior surface of the tank 702 and seals any openings between the air injector assembly 712 and the tank 702. The body 714 is located outside of the tank 702 and is in fluid communication with the interior of the tank 702. The body 714 includes a nozzle port 722 for receiving a drive water line 724. The body 714 further includes an air port 726 through which air can enter into the body 714 and the tank 702. The body 714 includes an outlet port 728 that is fluidly connected to the fitting 716. A venturi nozzle 730 is provided in the nozzle port 722 and a throat portion 732 is provided in the outlet port 728. A check valve 733 is provided in the air port 726. The flow of water through the nozzle causes air to be drawn into the water through the air port from a source of air such as ambient air. In other arrangements the air source may include a source of compressed air or other oxygen containing gas.

In an exemplary arrangement a liquid chlorine line 734 for supplying liquid chlorine from a source is fluidly connected to an injector 736. Alternatively, the line 734 may supply other types of suitable sterilizing disinfectant liquids. These may include for example hydrogen peroxide, Oxyclean™ liquid, or other disinfectant sterilizing liquid. The injector 736 is located at the external port 944 of a sterilizer valve 738. The sterilizer valve 738 is provided in a bore of the valve body 956 that fluidly communicates with the external port 944 connected to the liquid chlorine line. The sterilizer valve 738 may be of similar construction and design as the brine valve 64 of the previous or incorporated arrangements except that in this exemplary arrangement it is being used to control the flow of liquid chlorine from the liquid chlorine line 734 into the tank 702. This liquid chlorine is used to sterilize and disinfect the filtration media 706 and other substances in the interior of the tank 702. Of course in other arrangements other valve arrangements for the introduction sterilization and disinfectant materials may be used.

The exemplary sterilizer valve 738 is operated to move between an open position to allow liquid chlorine from the line 734 to flow into the tank 702 and a closed position to block liquid chlorine flow from the line 734 into the tank 702. In particular, initially the sterilizer valve 738 is in the closed position as shown in FIG. 14 . When a determination is made by the valve controller 926 to flow the liquid chlorine into the tank 702, the controller 926 is programmed to send a control signal to the motor 998 of the sterilizer valve 738 to cause the cam 972 to rotate clockwise until the cam projection engages and moves the valve stem downward as shown to open the sterilizer valve 738 for a programmed predetermined time. The controller 926 may include a timer to start timing when the control signal is sent. A venturi type nozzle injector 740 may be used to provide the motive force to draw the liquid chlorine into the tank 702. The venturi injector 740 is provided in the control valve 710 and is driven by the flow of untreated water. The flow of water through the nozzle causes the liquid disinfectant to be drawn into the flowing water. Such a venturi injector may be like that shown in the incorporated disclosures. With the sterilizer valve 738 opened, the liquid chlorine can flow from the liquid chlorine line 734 through the port 944 through the venturi injector 740 and down into the tank 702 for the predetermined time. After the controller 926 determines that the liquid chlorine has flowed for the predetermined time, the controller 926 then sends a control signal to the motor 998 for the sterilizer valve 738 to cause the cam 972 to rotate clockwise until the cam projection is disengaged from the valve stem to place the sterilizer valve 738 in the closed position.

An outlet 742 of the control valve is in fluid communication with the inlet port to an untreated water line 938 and is also in fluid communication with a threaded opening 658 of a body cover 744. The body cover may be similar to that of the incorporated disclosures. In this arrangement, plugs 660 are threadily inserted into the first and second threaded openings 654, 656 to plug them up. Drive water flows out of the outlet 742 and then out of the third threaded opening 658 and into the drive water line 724. The drive water flows through nozzle 730 of an air injector assembly 712. The liquid flow through the nozzle draws air through the air port 726 and throat 732 and both flow into the tank 702.

In operation, a cycle begins with the exemplary control valve 710 in the service position in which the untreated water port is in fluid communication with a top opening of the tank 702, and a distribution tube 955 of the tank 702 is in fluid communication with the treated water outlet port of the control valve. The sterilizer valve 738 is in the closed position blocking the liquid chlorine from entering the tank 702. In this closed position, the upper end of the valve stem is located adjacent the trailing end (in the counterclockwise direction) of the cam projection and is therefore not engaged by the cam projection. In this position, the push button is not in the recess and depressed by the body of the cam so that a switch causes a signal to be sent to the controller 926 indicating that the sterilizer valve 738 is in the closed position. In the service position, the exemplary valve element which comprises the movable piston of the control valve is in a position to allow treated water to exit the treated water outlet port. Thus, untreated water flows from the untreated water inlet port of the control valve and into the tank 702. The untreated water passes through the pocket of air 709 in the upper portion of the tank and certain contaminants in the water are oxidized as the water travels through the head of air. The untreated water also travels through and on the surfaces of the aeration and sorbing balls 708, which enhance oxidation of contaminants which facilitates removal of the iron and other contaminants from the untreated water. The oxidized matter is subsequently filtered out of the filtration media 706. The water then passes through the filtration media 706 and flows up through the distribution tube 955 to the tank port of the valve body 956 and to the treated water line outlet port and a treated water line 940.

When a determination is made by the controller 926 to operate an air induction cycle due to, for example, most of the oxygen in the air pocket being used for oxidation, first the piston in the control valve is moved by the motor connected to actuator bracket 976 to a position so that the top opening of the tank 702 is in fluid communication with the drain port of the control valve and drain line 946. In this position, any residual air is removed from tank 702. The motor operates to move bracket 976 in a creeper mode to cause the piston in the valve to move very slowly to open the drain port so that the air is released very slowly. After the air is removed, the piston is longitudinally positioned to decompress the tank 702 to draw air. The piston is also positioned so that untreated water can flow to the venturi injector 740. The sterilizer valve 738 is placed in the open position. The piston is also moved to a position in which the untreated water can flow through nozzle 746 of the venturi injector 740 to draw the liquid chlorine from the line 734 and through the venturi injector 740 and into the tank 702 to sterilize the elements in the interior of the tank 702. The sterilizer valve 738 is then moved to a closed position after a predetermined time.

The exemplary valve elements which comprise the piston of the control valve then moves into a downflow rinse position for a time period and then to a position where there is no flow into the tank for a predetermined time. This allows more contact time with the liquid chlorine for enhanced disinfecting action. Then, a backwash (alternatively referred to as a backflush) cycle is performed. The motor and actuator bracket 976 for the piston causes the piston to move to the backwash position similar to that shown in FIG. 3 . Also, the motor 998 associated with the sterilizer valve 738 causes the cam 972 to rotate clockwise until the cam projection is disengaged from the valve stem to place the sterilizer valve in the closed position to prevent sterilizer fluid from flowing into the tank 702. In this position, the top opening of the tank 702 is in fluid communication with the drain port of the valve, and the untreated water inlet port is in fluid communication with both the treated water outlet and the distribution tube 955. Thus, untreated water entering from the inlet orifice port flows both through the outlet orifice port to supply untreated water to the treated water line 940, and also through the distribution tube 955. The untreated water flows down through the distribution tube 955 and up through the filtration media 706 and out the drain port of the valve to backflush trapped particulate matter from the filtration media 706. It also flushes the air 709 out of the tank 702 through the drain port and drain line 946. In this position, a switch in operative connection with the cam 972 causes a signal to be sent to the controller 926 indicating that the sterilizer valve 738 is in the closed position.

After the backwash phase of the cycle is complete, the motor of the control valve causes the piston to move to the rapid rinse position (such as in FIG. 5 ). In this position, the untreated water inlet port is connected to the treated water outlet port and the top opening of the tank 702. The distribution tube 955 is connected to the drain port, thereby rinsing the tank 702, balls and media with untreated water.

Then, an air induction cycle is performed. The motor of the valve causes the piston to move so that the tank 702 is decompressed and the drain port of the valve and drain line 946 is opened. The piston is positioned such that untreated water from the untreated water inlet port flows through the outlet 742 and opening 658 and into the drive water line 724. The check valve 733 is open to allow air to enter the air injector assembly 712. The drive water flows through the nozzle 730 to draw air through the air port 726. The air and drive water combine to travel through the throat 732 and through the fitting 716 and opening 718 and into the tank 702. The untreated water also flows into the top opening of the tank 702 from the control valve 710. The water flows from the bottom of tank 702 up through the distribution tube 955 and out the drain port of the control valve. As water flows out of the drain port, the upper area of the tank 702 is being filled with air from the air injector assembly 712. This is continued until the water is substantially drained from the interior of the tank 702 and the volume of the tank not occupied by the filtration media 706 is filled with air. After this occurs, the check valve 733 automatically closes to prevent air from escaping from the tank 702. Then, the control valve 710 causes the piston therein to be positioned in the service position for normal filtration operation. Since the air is injected directly into the tank 702 and is not passed through the body of the control valve 710, fouling due to oxidation is reduced in the control valve.

When air is injected into the tank 702 to oxidize the iron/sulfur and/or other oxidizable contaminants before the untreated water flows through the filter media 706, the contaminants are oxidized resulting in ferrous oxide or iron oxide being produced in the upper area of the tank 702 above the filter media 706. Since the control valve 710 is mounted on the top of the tank 702 and extends into the upper area of the tank, the piston and seals associated with the piston of the control valve 710 are exposed to the head of compressed air 709. These resilient seals are durable when wet, since they are designed to be exposed to water such as in the water softener systems described in the incorporated disclosures. However, when the seals are exposed to the compressed air and iron during the filter service condition of the water treatment system 700, the oxidation can cause the seals to dry out and harden causing premature wear and failure. Further, the iron particles from the iron oxide adhere to the seals and the piston forming sludge and/or crust. Such conditions can cause the seals to be fused to the piston, resulting in the piston sticking to the seals, which inhibits the piston's normal sliding movement in connection with the seals. This condition also creates more load on the motor and drive gears that operate to move the piston relative to the seals. The sticking and unsticking of the piston as it moves relative to the seals may also tear and/or remove pieces of the seals and inhibit their sealing performance. Thus, these seals may need to be changed often if the control valve 710 is mounted to the top of the tank 702 in a water treatment system 700 that uses oxidation and filtration to treat the water if the valve interior area is generally exposed to air.

In addition, the compressed head of air 709 in the air pocket in the upper area of the tank may cause air to back flow into the untreated water line 938 that supplies untreated water from the water source such as a well. This backflow of air can cause “coughing” or “spitting” in the water lines. A check valve may be provided in the untreated water line 938 that supplies untreated water to the upper chamber of the tank 702 to prevent the back flow of air. However, the check valve will also be exposed to the compressed air and iron such that the iron particles (or other contaminates) adhere to the check valve and cause the check valve to develop sludge and/or crust up. This condition restricts the flow of water coming into the upper chamber of the tank 702 and also causes the check valve to fail to prevent the air from back flowing into the water lines.

FIG. 15 shows an exemplary arrangement of a liquid treatment system 1030 that reduces these problems of premature failure of the seals in a control valve and seals being fused to the piston within the control valve as well as failure of check valves. The water treatment system 1030 is similar to the water treatment system 700 except as discussed below. Thus, in this exemplary arrangement, the same reference numbers are generally used for elements that are similar in construction and function as that of the water treatment system 700 of the previous arrangement. As seen in FIG. 15 , the water treatment system 1030 includes the control valve 710. The control valve is located away from the top of the tank 1064 and in a manner so that the plurality of seals associated with the piston generally remain wetted and in water and are not exposed for extended periods to the compressed air and iron. Exposure to air does not occur during the exemplary filtering operation when the control valve is in the filter service condition. The tank 1064 is similar to the tank 702 of the previous arrangement except for that described below.

The exemplary control valve 710 includes an untreated water inlet port, the treated water outlet, and drain port similar to valve 10 and the valves of the incorporated disclosures. The drain port is operatively connected to the drain line 946. The untreated water inlet port is operatively connected to the untreated water line 938. The treated water outlet is operatively connected to the treated water line 940. Referring to FIG. 16 , the control valve 710 includes a valve body 956. The exemplary valve body 956 includes a selectively longitudinally positionable piston, a plurality of fluid passages and external ports in open communication with the exterior of the valve body. The valve body 956 includes internal fluid passages that open into the central bore of the valve body 956. The central bore is in fluid communication with a lower port 1032, which is formed in one piece with the valve body 956. The lower port 1032 includes an inner tube 1034 that is surrounded by a concentric outer tube 1036. The outer tube 1036 has a threaded external surface. Of course it should be understood that in other arrangements other types of valves and valve elements may be used.

The exemplary water treatment system 1030 further comprises a riser assembly 1038. The riser assembly 1038 includes a central inner pipe 1040 that is surrounded by a concentric outer pipe 1042. The diameter of the inner tube 1034 and inner pipe 1040 are smaller than the diameter of their respective outer tube 1036 and outer pipe 1042. A threaded upper female coupling 1044 is rigidly secured to the upper end of the riser assembly 1038. The upper female coupling 1044 includes an integral step 1046 that extends inwardly from the inner surface of the upper female coupling 1044 and circumferentially around the interior of the upper female coupling 1044. The valve body 956 is mounted on and fluidly connected to the riser assembly 1038. In particular, the outer tube 1036 of the lower port 1032 threadily engages the upper female coupling 1044 such that the lower end of the outer tube 1036 securely seats on the step 1046. In this position, the inner tube 1034 is in fluid communication with the inner pipe 1040 and the outer tube 1036 is in fluid communication with the outer pipe 1042. A seal is operatively connected to the inner pipe 1040 and the inner tube 1034 to seal them from the outer tube 1036 and outer pipe 1042, thereby preventing fluid flowing through the inner tube 1034 and inner pipe 1040 from escaping into the outer passageway 1048 defined by the inner pipe 1040 and inner tube 1034 and outer pipe and outer tube. A seal is operatively connected to the outer pipe 1042 and the outer tube 1036 to seal them together, thereby preventing fluid flowing through the outer passageway 1048 from escaping.

In this exemplary arrangement a lower threaded female coupling 1054 is rigidly secured to the lower end of the riser assembly 1038 by a connector fitting 1056. The lower female coupling 1054 includes an integral step 1046 that extends inwardly from the inner surface of the lower female coupling 1054 and circumferentially around the interior of the lower female coupling 1054. A u-shaped pipe assembly 1058 is fluidly connected to the lower female coupling 1054. The pipe assembly 1058 has a first end 1059 that is threadably secured to the lower female coupling 1054 and abuts against the underside of the step 1046. The pipe assembly 1058 includes first and second conduits 1060, 1062. The inner pipe 1040 extends into the first conduit 1060 and is in fluid communication with the first conduit 1060. A seal may be provided to seal the first conduit 1060 and inner pipe 1040 to each other. The second conduit 1062 is in fluid communication with the outer passageway 1048. The second conduit 1062 is in fluid communication through a tube fluid port with the distribution tube 955 of the tank 1064. The distribution tube extends downward into an end 1072 of the second conduit 1062. The tube terminates in the upper area of the tank with a tube opening configured to be within an air pocket at the upper end of the tank when the air pocket is present. The first conduit 1060 is in fluid communication with the bottom of the tank 1064. The piping assembly 1058 may include threaded pipe section 1074 that surrounds and is concentric with the tank end 1072 of the second conduit 1062. The threaded pipe section 1074 and the end 1072 are radially spaced from each other to define an outer passageway 1075 which serves as a lower tank fluid port. The threaded pipe section 1074 threadily engages a connector 1076 to support and seal the pipe section 1074 to the tank 1064.

The external ports of the control valve 710 are fluidly connected to the untreated water line 938, treated water line 940, drain line 946, air injector assembly 712, and the inner and outer pipes 1040, 1042 of the riser assembly 1038. The drain port provided at the valve body 956 is in fluid communication with the central bore and drain line 946. Similar to the previously described control valve and the valves of the incorporated disclosures, the exemplary control valve has a central bore configured to slidingly receive a piston and a seal assembly. The piston is connected to a piston rod and rod retainer. A retaining plate may be integrally formed in one piece with the piston rod. The seal assembly includes a plurality of seals that are fixed to the valve body 956 at locations that, upon their engagement with the piston, seal the internal valve passages from other valve passages. The exemplary piston axially moves through the annular resilient seals when the piston is moved to selected certain positions to place the various fluid passages and ports of the valve in fluid connection. Of course in other arrangements other types of valve elements and valve configurations may be used.

As previously mentioned, the interior of the exemplary tank 1064 includes a distributor plate 704 that supports filtration media 706 placed upon the distributor plate 704. The distributor plate serves as a water diffuser for distribution of water flow when the tank and filter media are backflushed. The filtration media 706 may include any suitable media that can filter and remove contaminants such as oxidized particulates or other materials containing iron, magnesium, or sulfur. Aeration or sorbing structures such as balls 708 such as shown in FIG. 13 may be provided in the tank on top of the filtration media 706. Theses mass transfer balls 708 attract iron and other contaminants in the water and enhance oxidation and removal of the iron and contaminants from the untreated water. As depicted in FIGS. 16-19 , water 1071 may be positioned between the filtration media and the pocket of compressed air. The oxidation zone in the tank 702 includes the pocket of compressed air 709 that extends above the water level, and which may extend below at least the tops of the balls 708. The water 1071 prevents the compressed air from reaching the bottom of the tank 1064 and hence the second conduit 1062 of the pipe assembly 1058. The distribution tube 955 extends from the bottom of the tank 1064 to near the top of the tank 1064.

The exemplary riser assembly 1038 is operatively attached to the tank 1064 by a clamp 1050. The clamp may be a double C clamp as seen in FIG. 15 . Specifically, the clamp 1050 includes a one piece base 1174 that has first and second c-shaped end portions 1176, 1178 that are oriented horizontally and face away from each other. The first c-shaped portion 1176 includes flanges 1180 integrally formed at the free ends of the first c-shaped end portion 1176. The first c-shaped portion 1176 surrounds and receives a portion of the riser assembly 1038. The clamp 1050 includes a c-shaped member 1182 with flanges 1184 integrally formed at the free ends of the c-shaped member 1182. The flanges 1184 may be connected with a fastener 1185. The c-shaped member 1182 surrounds and receives the remaining portion of the riser assembly 1038. The c-shaped member 1182 is fastened to the first c-shaped portion 1176 to support the riser assembly 1038, control valve 710, female coupling 1054, pipe assembly 1058, and other related elements to the tank 1064. This is accomplished by aligning and abutting associated pairs of flanges against each other and fastening a screw, bolt or other fastening to them. An upper connector fitting 1052 is connected to the clamp 1050, riser assembly 1038, and upper female coupling 1044 to help further secure the upper female coupling 1044 to the riser assembly 1038.

The second c-portion 1178 of the clamp surrounds and receives a portion of the tank 1064. A rubber strap or seal 1066 (FIG. 15 ) may be attached to the opposite ends of the second c-portion 1178 of the clamp 1050 and fit around the remaining portion of the tank 1064 to secure the tank 1064 to the clamp 1050. The strap 1066 is strong and flexible and will expand or contract in response to the tank 1064 expanding or contracting. Thus, unlike a metallic band, the rubber strap 1066 is soft and flexible so as to not cause damage to the fibers of the tank 1064. The clamp 1050 may be formed of metal such as steel, plastic, or any other suitable material.

In this exemplary arrangement a venturi nozzle type air injector assembly 712 is provided to inject air into the tank 1064. As depicted in FIG. 14 , the air injector assembly 712 includes the external body 714 and an outlet port 728. In this arrangement, the outlet port 728 is fluidly connected to a hose 1068, which is in turn fluidly connected to an elbow fitting 1070 as depicted in FIG. 15 . The elbow fitting 1070 is fluidly connected to the end of the pipe assembly 1058 connected to the bottom of the tank 1064. The elbow fitting 1070 is in fluid communication with the second conduit 1062 and the interior area of the distribution tube 955. The body 714 is located outside of the tank 702 and is in fluid communication with the interior area 1078 of the tank 702. The body 714 includes the nozzle including the nozzle port 722 for receiving the drive water line 724. The nozzle port 722 is connected to an untreated water port of the control valve. The body 714 further includes an air port 726 through which air can enter into the body 714 and eventually the tube and the tank 702. The body 714 includes an outlet port 728 that is fluidly connected to the fitting 716. With reference to FIG. 14 , a venturi nozzle 730 is provided in the nozzle port 722 and a throat portion 732 is provided in the outlet port 728. A check valve 733 is provided in the air port 726.

Similar to the previously described arrangement, the liquid chlorine line 734 for supplying disinfectant fluid such as chlorine from a source is fluidly connected to the injector 736 as shown in FIG. 14 . Alternatively, the line 734 may supply other types of suitable sterilizing liquids. The injector 736 is located at the external port 144 of a sterilizer valve 738. The sterilizer valve 738 may be provided in a bore of the valve body 956 that fluidly communicates with the external port 944 connected to the liquid chlorine line. The sterilizer valve 738 is operated to move between an open position to allow liquid chlorine from the line 734 to flow into the tube and into the interior area of the tank 702 and a closed position to block liquid chlorine from the line 734 to flow into the tank 702.

As seen in FIGS. 15-19 , the exemplary control valve 710 is positioned away from the top of the interior area 1078 of the tank 1064 which houses the compressed air during filtering operation when the control valve is in the filter service condition. The entire piston of the control valve is positioned so it is generally maintained wetted and exposed only to liquid during operation, and is exposed to air only during the relatively short periods during an operating cycle in which air at the top of the tank is passed through the valve to exhaust the air from the tank. By maintaining the valve piston and the plurality of seals in a wetted condition at almost all times, oxidation of iron and other materials in the water is reduced within the valve. This reduces the formation of damaging sludge and crust which can cause valve failures.

In operation, an exemplary cycle begins with the control valve 710 in the service position as shown in FIG. 16 in which untreated water is filtered. In this condition, the untreated water inlet port is in fluid communication with the outer passageway 1048 between the inner and outer tubes 1034, 1036, the outer passageway 1048 in the riser assembly 1038 between the inner and outer pipes 1040, 1042, the first conduit 1060, and the distribution tube 955. The bottom of the tank 702 is in fluid communication with the first conduit 1060, inner pipe 1040, inner tube 1034, and treated water outlet port of the control valve. The sterilizer valve 738 is in the closed position blocking the liquid chlorine from entering the tank 702. In this closed position, the upper end of the valve stem is located adjacent the trailing end (in the counterclockwise direction) of the cam projection and is therefore not engaged by the cam projection of the cam 972. In this position, a switch causes a signal to be sent to the controller 926 indicating that the sterilizer valve 738 is in the closed position. In the service position of the control valve, the piston is in a position to allow treated water to exit the outlet port. Thus, untreated water flows from the untreated water port of the control valve, through the outer passageway 1048, through the second conduit 1062, and up through the tube opening of distribution tube 955. The untreated water passes outside the tube through the pocket of compressed air 709 at the top of the tank and contaminants in the water are oxidized as the water travels through the pocket of compressed air. The untreated water also travels downwardly through the sorbing balls 708, which enhance removal of the iron and other contaminants from the water. The oxidized matter is subsequently filtered out by the filtration media 706. The water then passes through the filtration media 706 and flows out through the lower tank fluid port at the bottom of the tank 1064. The filtered water then flows through the first conduit 1060, the inner pipe 1040, the inner tube 1034, and then through the outlet port of the valve body 956 to the treated water line 940.

After filtration is ongoing for some time the oxygen in the compressed air is consumed through the chemical oxidation process. The determination to replenish the compressed air may be done through programmed operation of a controller such as controller 926. Such a determination may be made based on a programmed basis in response to certain factors or combinations of factors. For example, in some arrangements the controller may operate to make the determination on a timed basis based on elapsed time since the last time the air was replenished. In other arrangements, a flow meter may be used to measure the volume of treated water that has passed through the tank since the air was replenished, and replenish the air and filtration capabilities after a certain number of gallons.

In other arrangements sensors may be included in the air to measure the oxygen content. The sensing that the oxygen content has declined to a given level may be used as a threshold for the controller to operate to make a determination to cycle the system. In other arrangements the volume and/or pressure change in the air in the pocket at the top of the tank may be measured to detect reductions as oxygen in the air is consumed through oxidation. In still other arrangements sensors may be used to sense the level of oxidizable material in the water to determine a need to replenish the air. For example, sensing an increase in such material in the treated water leaving the tank will reflect a reduction in filter efficiency and a need to replenish the air. Alternatively or in addition, sensing the level of oxidizable contaminants in the incoming untreated water may be used to determine how long the system should be operated before the air should be replenished. Some controller arrangements may operate based on one or more such factors and other factors in making programmed determinations of a need to replenish the air at the top of the tank. Further in some exemplary arrangements controllers may consider factors such as water temperature, viscosity, hardness, surface tension and resistance to atomization in determining the concentration of oxygen needed to effectively treat the water. Of course these approaches are exemplary.

Upon a determination being made by the controller 926 to operate an air induction cycle, first the piston of the valve is axially moved by the motor to a position as represented in FIG. 17 so that the inner pipe and distribution tube are in fluid communication with the drain port of the control valve. In this air release condition, any residual air is removed from the tank 1064. In the exemplary arrangement, the motor operates in a creeper mode to cause the piston to move very slowly to slowly open the drain port so that the air is released in a controlled manner. It is during this portion of the cycle that the internal valve components are exposed to air, and in this case the oxygen which could cause the formation of sludge and crust is largely depleted from the air that passes through the valve.

After the air is removed from the top of the tank, the piston of the control valve is moved to decompress the tank 1064 to draw air. The piston is also axially moved so that untreated water from the water line 938 flows through the untreated water port through the nozzle port 722. In this air introduction condition the drive water flows through the nozzle 730 to draw air through the air port 726 and throat 732 and they both flow through the tube 1068. Air is carried in the water upward through the distribution tube 955 and into the top of the tank 1064. The sterilizer valve 738 is also placed by the controller in an open position. The piston of the control valve is also axially moved to a position which corresponds to a disinfectant introduction condition where the untreated water can flow through nozzle 746 of the venturi injector 740 to draw from a source of liquid chlorine from the line 734 and through the venturi injector 740 from which the water and disinfectant move upwardly through the distribution tube 955 and into the tank 1064 to sterilize the elements in the interior area 1078 of the tank 1064. The sterilizer valve 738 is then moved to a closed position after a predetermined time or other programmed basis.

The piston of the control valve then moves into a down flow rinse configuration for a set time period and then to a position where there is no flow into the tank 1064 for a predetermined time. This allows more contact time with the liquid chlorine for enhanced sterilization. Then, a backwash cycle is performed. The motor is controlled to cause the piston of the control valve to move to the backwash position represented in FIG. 17 . In the backwash condition untreated water passes upward through the lower tank fluid port and the distributor plate to backwash the filter media. Also, the motor 998 for the sterilizer valve 738 causes the cam 972 to rotate clockwise until the cam projection is disengaged from the valve stem to place the sterilizer valve 738 in the closed position to prevent fluid from flowing into the tank 1064. As represented in FIG. 17 , in this position, the distribution tube 955 is in fluid communication with the drain port of the control valve. The untreated water inlet port is in fluid communication with the inner tube 1034, the inner pipe 1040, the first conduit 1060, and outer passageway 1075. Thus, untreated water entering from the inlet port of the control valve flows through the inner tube 1034, the inner pipe 1040, the first conduit 1060, and outer passageway 1075 into the bottom of the tank 1064. The untreated water flows up the bottom of the tank through the lower tank fluid port and the filtration media 706 and then to the upper area of the tank. The water in the backwash flow enters the tube opening at the top thereof and flows down through the distribution tube 955 and out the drain port of the control valve to flush trapped particulate matter from the filtration media 706. It also flushes the air 709 that was introduced at the time of introducing the liquid chlorine out of the tank 702 through the control valve drain port. In this position, a switch in operative connection with the cam 972 causes a signal to be sent to the controller 126 indicating that the sterilizer valve 738 is in the closed position.

After the backwash phase of the cycle is complete, the motor is controlled to cause the piston of the control valve to move to the rapid rinse position (see FIG. 18 ). In this position, the untreated water inlet port of the valve is connected to the treated water outlet port. The untreated water inlet port is also in fluid communication with the outer passageway 1048, second conduit 1062, and the distribution tube 955 of the tank 1064. Untreated water flows up and out of the opening of the distribution tube 955 and down inside tank 1064 through the filtration media 706, the outer passageway 1075, the first conduit 1060, the drain port of the valve and to the drain line 946. This action rinses the tank 1064 and filtration media with untreated water.

Then, air introduction to form the air pocket in the tank is performed as represented in FIG. 19 . The motor is controlled to cause the piston of the control valve to move so that the tank 1064 is decompressed by having the valve drain port and drain line 946 opened. The piston is moved such that untreated water from the inlet port flows through the outlet 742 and drain port or opening 658 (FIG. 14 ) and into the drive water line 724. The check valve 733 is open to allow air to enter the air injector assembly 712. Referring to FIGS. 14 and 15 , the drive water flows through the nozzle 730 to draw ambient air through the air port 726. The air and drive water combine to travel through the throat 732 and through the tube 1068 and the second conduit 1062 and up through the distribution tube 955 into the top of the tank 1064. The air pocket accumulates at the top of the tank. The water flows down through the filtration media 706 to the bottom of tank 1064 and passes through the first conduit 1060, the inner pipe 1040, the inner tube 1034 and out the drain port of the control valve. As water flows out of the drain port, the tank 1064 is being filled with air from the air injector assembly 712. This is continued until the water is substantially displaced from the interior area 1078 of the tank 1064 and the volume of tank 1064 not occupied by the filtration media 706 is filled with air. After this occurs, the check valve 733 automatically closes to prevent air from escaping from the tank 1064. Then, the control valve 710 is controlled responsive to the controller to move to the filter service position for normal filtration operation in which the interior area of the control valve remains continuously wetted. In some alternative arrangements, the order of the configurations in the cycle can be changed if desired. For example, the air induction configuration could occur before the rinse cycle.

Since the incoming air is injected directly into the tank 1064 and bypasses the control valve 710, fouling due to the contaminants in the water being exposed to oxygen is reduced in the interior area of control valve 710. Also, since the components within control valve 710 such as the piston, seals, and other parts are almost always covered by water, the control valve 710 is less susceptible to wear because the ions entrained in the water do not oxidize in the interior of the valve. In the exemplary arrangement, water comes through the control valve 710 but gets oxidized in the tank 1064 and immediately is filtered and then flows back through the control valve 710. The control valve 710 is exposed to unoxidized iron or other ions in the untreated water or clean water. The interior of the control valve 710 is not exposed to the oxygen in air except during relatively short periods in the operating cycle when air is exhausted from the tank, and such air generally has the oxygen therein somewhat depleted. As shown in the exemplary arrangement, the control valve 710 is located outside of the tank 1064 and adjacent to the side of the tank 1064. This reduces the oxidation of contaminants that can occur within the valve and avoids damage to internal valve components.

It should be noted that the control valve 710 may be located elsewhere relative to the air pocket at the top of the tank 1064 to limit exposure of internal components of the control valve 710 to oxygen. For example, FIG. 20 shows a control valve located away from the tank and connected thereto via flexible conduits. Flexible conduits can be used in lieu of the stand pipe arrangement of the exemplary arrangement previously described. FIG. 21 shows an alternative configuration where the control valve is located beneath the tank in a base structure. Locating the control valve within the base structure may be used to provide a more compact arrangement with the tank. Of course it should be understood that the arrangements shown are exemplary and in other arrangements other structures and configurations may be used.

As discussed above, in some exemplary arrangements when the controller operates to change the exemplary valve from the service condition to the air release condition in which the pocket of air at the top of the tank from which the oxygen has been generally depleted, is released through the valve to the drain, the controller operates to move the piston or other valve element very slowly in a creeper mode. This slow movement is operative to cause the air pocket to be released slowly from the upper area of the tank. Such slow air release is desirable in some arrangements to prevent a violent air discharge, “spitting” a mixture of air and liquid from the drain line, air hammer and pressure fluctuations that can hamper functioning of the valve and connected systems. In order to reduce the potential problems that can occur when changing the valve from the service condition to the air release condition, alternative exemplary valve controllers may operate in accordance with their control circuit executable instructions to cause the valve to be in a decompression condition in which the air pocket in the tank is decompressed, before placing the valve in an air release condition. Placing the valve in a decompression condition reduces the pressure of the air pocket before the valve is changed to a condition in which the air pocket is released to the drain line through the valve.

For example in some exemplary arrangements when it is determined that the oxygen in the air pocket within the tank has been substantially depleted and needs to be replenished, the valve controller may operate to cause the valve and tank that is in the filter service condition, to be changed to a decompression condition. In the decompression condition the lower area of the tank is open and directly fluidly connected through the valve to the drain port of the valve and the drain line connected thereto. In the decompression condition the air pocket in the tank is enabled to expand as liquid drains and is moved out of the lower area of the tank to the drain. As can be appreciated, in an exemplary arrangement the elevated air pressure in the air pocket provides a force that acts on the upper surface of the liquid in the tank and urges the liquid to move out of the lower area of the tank. As the liquid flows out of the tank, the air pocket expands until the pressure of the air pocket is equal to the residual head pressure of the liquid in the vertical passages to the valve and in the drain line. Generally in exemplary systems this is a relatively low pressure that is not substantially above atmospheric pressure. Further, because the liquid is generally incompressible, the liquid flows out of the lower area of the tank to the drain without “spitting,” hammer or other conditions that result due to the presence of air entrained in the liquid.

For example in some exemplary arrangements the decompression position of the valve may also correspond to the air draw condition such as in FIG. 19 , in which the valve is positioned to operate to cause air and untreated liquid to flow into the interior area of the tank while liquid flows out of the lower area of the tank and through the valve to the drain. In other exemplary arrangements the decompression condition may correspond to other suitable conditions in which liquid exits from the lower area of the tank such as in FIG. 18 , or FIG. 5 . Of course it should be understood that other valve conditions in which the pocket of air can be decompressed by enabling the liquid to flow from the lower area of the tank to decompress the air pocket may be used.

In some exemplary arrangements, the controller operates to cause the piston or other valve element(s) in the valve to move from the position of the valve elements associated with the filter service condition, to a decompression position, before the condition of the valve is changed to an air release condition. In an exemplary arrangement the decompression condition is maintained for a set period of time in accordance with the programming of the controller circuitry 926 associated with the valve. For example in some exemplary arrangements the controller may operate to keep the valve in the decompression condition for a predetermined time that is considered to be suitable to cause the air pocket to expand to the point of equilibrium with the residual vertical head of water in the passages and line to the drain. In some exemplary arrangements the set time period may be about 30 to 60 seconds. Of course it should be understood that this time is exemplary and in other arrangements the controller 926 may operate to provide other timed decompression cycles, or that other approaches may be used such as using pressure sensors or other sensors to determine when the pressure has been reduced to a level that is considered acceptable.

Once the controller has caused the valve to be in the decompression condition for a suitable period of time, the controller then operates to cause the valve to be placed in an air release condition such as shown in FIG. 17 . In such arrangements the controller may operate the valve motor to slowly creep into the air release condition so that any residual pressure in the air pocket is released very slowly through the valve to the drain. In some exemplary arrangements the air release condition may be combined with or may be in timed overlapping relation with a backflush condition of the valve. As previously discussed, in the backflush condition untreated liquid is passed through the valve and into the lower area of the tank. The liquid then passes upward through the filtration media and sorbing bodies to backflush the media and bodies. The liquid that has passed upwardly through the media then exits from the upper area of the tank through the tube and the valve to the drain. In such exemplary arrangements the backflush flow is also operative to cause at least the majority of the residual air in the upper area of the tank to be pushed out of the tank and released through the valve to the drain. Of course this approach is exemplary and in other arrangements other approaches may be used.

In exemplary arrangements where the valve element within the valve is a longitudinally movable piston such as piston 34, that extends a longitudinally extending cylindrical bore such as bore 32 with surrounding annular flow passages, the piston moves in a longitudinal direction along an axis responsive to the motor which is controlled by the controller. The controller is operative to cause the piston to be selectively positioned longitudinally within the bore so as to be in the desired piston position which corresponds to the desired valve condition. In the exemplary arrangement in which the piston moves from a position in which the valve is in a filter service condition to a piston position which corresponds to a decompression condition, and then to a piston position which corresponds to an air release condition, it is desirable to have the piston position which corresponds to the decompression condition be longitudinally which is alternatively referred to as axially intermediate of the positions which correspond to the service condition and the air release condition. This particular exemplary arrangement avoids the need to move the piston through a position in which air would be released before the decompression may occur. In the exemplary valve the longitudinal positions of the piston between the service position and the air release position include the position of the piston in the air draw condition. Thus in this exemplary arrangement the piston can be moved longitudinally from the piston position corresponding to the service condition to the air draw condition, before moving the piston into the air release condition. Of course it should be understood that this approach is exemplary and other arrangements other approaches may be used. For example if a valve is configured such that a valve element such as a piston 34 would have to move through a position in which the air pocket in the tank would be discharged before reaching a position in which the air pocket would be decompressed, one or more external valves that are controlled through operation of the controller may be installed in the line or lines through which the air would otherwise be released, and could be controlled to be in the closed position as the valve element passes through the position in which air release would otherwise occur. Further it should be understood the exemplary approach of decompression of the air pocket prior to release of the air may be used with valves that include other types of valve elements and is not limited to a valve element that includes a longitudinally movable piston arrangement.

The approach of operating the valve controller to cause the valve to be placed in a decompression condition between the filter service condition and the air release condition, is well-suited for use in connection with liquid treatment systems in which the interior area of the valve remains continuously wetted in the filter service condition. This is because the decompression condition provides for the pressure force of the air pocket to move the water from the lower area of the tank downward and out of the tank and through the valve to the drain. Depending on the particular valve and drain line configuration, this downward movement may provide flow momentum and siphoning effects that further help to reduce the pressure of the air pocket as part of the decompression.

However it should be understood that the exemplary approach of placing the valve in a decompression condition between when the valve is in the filter service condition and the air release condition, may also be applied to system and valve configurations such as those shown in FIG. 13 . In this configuration the interior area of the valve and the seals therein do not remain continuously wetted in the filter service condition as in other described exemplary arrangements. However systems of this type still require the generally slow release of the air pocket from the upper interior area of the tank to avoid the problems that can occur as the air pocket is released to drain directly through the interior area of the valve. Thus as can be appreciated, systems of this type may be placed in a decompression condition in which the valve 710 directly fluidly connects the opening at the bottom of the tube 955 through the valve to a drain port of the valve, before the valve changes to an air release condition in which the upper area the tank is connected through one or more passages in the valve to the drain. Even in systems of this type, having the valve be maintained in the decompression condition after being changed from the service condition for period of time sufficient to decompress the air pocket, before changing the condition of the valve to the air release condition, serves to reduce the pressure of the air within the interior area of the tank and reduces the drawbacks associated with changing the condition of the valve directly from the filter service condition to the air release condition.

In an exemplary arrangement the valve controller associated with the valve 710 is operative in the filter service condition to cause untreated liquid to flow through valve passages in the interior area of the valve and into an air pocket 709 in the upper area of the tank 702 or 1064. As previously discussed the untreated water passes through the air pocket and over the outer surfaces of the sorbing bodies to cause the oxidation of the material in the untreated liquid. The liquid then passes through the media 706 and into the lower area of the tank below the media. The treated liquid then passes from the lower area of the tank which is in direct fluid connection with the valve, through at least one passage in the interior area of the valve and out of the valve through the treated liquid port.

When the controller determines that the oxygen in the air pocket has been substantially depleted, the controller operates the valve to replenish the oxygen in the tank and if so programmed, to disinfect the sorbing bodies and media within the interior of the tank. The controller operates to cause the piston or other valve element(s) of the valve to move to a decompression condition. In exemplary arrangements in the decompression condition the lower area of the tank below the filter media is in direct fluid connection through the valve with the drain port thereof and the connected drain line. This causes the air in the air pocket to expand as the liquid flows out of the lower area of the tank and the liquid air interface within the tank moves downward with the draining liquid. As the air pocket expands the pressure is reduced. In an exemplary arrangement the decompression condition of the valve corresponds to the air draw condition in which untreated liquid passes from the valve through a separate Venturi or other air introduction valve and into the top of the tank while the lower area of the tank is open to the drain. As in this condition water enters the interior area of the tank more slowly than the water in the tank can exit, the air pocket is able to be decompressed. In other exemplary arrangements the decompression condition may correspond to other conditions in which water exits from the lower area of the tank, through the valve into the drain. As previously discussed in these conditions the pressure of the air pocket is reduced to correspond to generally the relatively low head pressure associated with any residual vertical water column between the bottom of the tank and the drain. In some exemplary arrangements the decompression of the air pocket will generally reduce the pressure to or to only slightly above atmospheric pressure.

In an exemplary arrangement the controller is operative to maintain the valve in the decompression condition for a set period of time corresponding to data stored in a memory such as a storage medium bearing circuit executable instructions associated with the controller circuitry. The set period of time is considered in the configuration of the system to be a time sufficient for decompressing the air pocket. Once this time has elapsed, the controller operates to cause the valve to change from the decompression condition to the air release condition. In the exemplary arrangement the controller operates the motor to cause the piston of the valve to move very slowly or “creep” so as to slowly cause the upper area of the tank to be directly fluidly connected through the interior area of the valve to the drain port. Even though in the exemplary arrangement the air pocket has been decompressed before moving to the air release condition, it may still be advisable to reduce the risk of any adverse conditions by moving to the air release condition very slowly. Further in the exemplary arrangement as the valve moves to the air release condition, or relatively shortly thereafter, the valve also moves into a backflush condition. As previously discussed, in the backflush condition the lower area of the tank is in direct fluid connection with the untreated liquid port through the valve. This causes the untreated liquid to flow into the lower area of the tank and upward through the media and the sorbing bodies to the upper area of the tank which is directly fluidly connected through the valve to the drain. As the tank is backflushed, most residual air in the upper area of the tank is displaced out of the tank and to the drain.

Once the media is backflushed the controller further operates the valve in accordance with its stored circuit executable instructions. In some exemplary arrangements the controller may cause the valve to be positioned so as to draw disinfectant into the upper area of the tank so as to disinfect the sorbing bodies and the media therein. If disinfectant is introduced into the interior area, the controller may operate in accordance with its circuit executable instructions to place the valve in a bypass condition or otherwise provide a set wait time so as to enable the disinfectant sufficient time to act on the bodies and media within the tank. For example, the valve may be placed in a bypass condition such as shown in FIG. 7 , for a predetermined programmed period of time in which no water passes through the tank and in which untreated water which is supplied to the inlet port of the valve is directed through the interior of the valve directly to the outlet port. Of course this approach is exemplary, and in other arrangements other approaches may be used.

In exemplary arrangements the controller may operate in accordance with its stored circuit executable instructions after disinfectant has been introduced to the tank, to cause the valve to be changed to a rapid rinse condition. In this condition the upper area of the tank is in direct fluid connection through the valve with the untreated liquid port of the valve, while the lower area of the tank below the filter media is in direct fluid connection through the valve with the drain port. In this rapid rinse condition excess disinfectant and the products of the disinfectant action are rinsed out of the interior area of the tank and passed to the drain. Of course it should be understood that in some exemplary arrangements where a disinfectant or other similar material is not used, the controller may not cause the valve to be in the rapid rinse condition before changing to the next valve condition in the cycle associated with the circuit executable instructions.

In the exemplary arrangement, the controller operates to cause a new air pocket with fresh air and oxygen therein to be introduced to the upper area of the tank. This is done in the manner previously discussed and as represented in FIG. 19 in which the valve is positioned in an air draw condition. In the air draw condition untreated liquid is caused to flow through a Venturi or other air introduction valve in operative connection with ambient air. The ambient air is drawn into the liquid and passed to the upper area of the tank in which the air separates from the liquid. The liquid then passes downwardly in the tank and exits from the lower area of the tank below the filter media through the valve and to the drain port. The air draw cycle is continued until the tank is substantially filled with air. This is done in exemplary arrangements by the valve controller operating during a programmed time period which is included in the circuit executable instructions associated with the controller and considered sufficient to fill the tank with air. Of course in other exemplary arrangements other approaches may be used to determine that the tank is sufficiently filled with air. Once the tank is deemed sufficiently filled with replenished air, the controller operates to cause the valve to return to the filter service condition.

Of course it should be understood that this approach is exemplary, and that in other arrangements other approaches, valve arrangements, tank structures, system configurations and operational programming and circuit executable instructions may be used.

FIGS. 22 through 28 show an alternative arrangement of a liquid treatment system 210. System 210 is generally similar to liquid treatment system 1030 shown in FIGS. 15-20 and the alternative system shown in FIG. 21 . System 210 includes a liquid connector structure that enables interchangeably providing liquid connections to a liquid treatment tank and a control valve.

Tank 212 includes a tank wall 214. The tank wall 214 bounds a tank interior area 216. The tank interior area may house filter media, sorbing bodies such as balls or other aeration material similar to the arrangements previously discussed. Such items are not shown in FIG. 22 for purposes of simplifying the view. Filter media 215 is shown in FIG. 28 . The exemplary tank 212 is an upright cylindrical tank, however it should be understood that in other arrangements other tank configurations may be used.

As best shown in FIGS. 26 and 27 tank 212 includes a bottom wall 218. Bottom wall 218 has a threaded opening 220 therethrough. Tank 212 also has a top wall 222. Top wall 222 includes a threaded opening 224. In this arrangement the threaded opening 224 is closed with a plug 226. In an exemplary arrangement the threaded opening 224 may be similar to that shown at the top of tank 14 previously discussed, that is suitable for accepting a threaded valve body projection of a control valve similar to control valves 10 and 110 previously discussed. However, system 210 is configured in a manner similar to system 700 to maintain the interior components of a control valve in a wetted condition.

In the exemplary arrangement the opening 220 in the bottom wall is in engagement with a liquid connector 228. The liquid connector 228 is threadably engaged in the opening 220. A tube 230 extends vertically in the tank interior area 216. The exemplary tube 230 is an elongated solid tube which bounds a tube interior area 232. Tube 230 has an opening 234. Opening 234 is positioned in an upper area 236 of the tank. In operation of the system 210 upper area 236 may house an air pocket similar to system 710.

The interior area 216 of the tank 212 also includes a lower area 238. The lower area is generally below the filter media 215 or other water treatment material housed within the tank interior area. A strainer 240 extends in surrounding relation of the tube 230 and is connected to a fluid passage in the liquid connector 228 as hereinafter discussed. The strainer 240 may be similar in operation to the strainers deviously discussed such as strainer 30. It should also be understood that the tank interior area may include other structures such as a distribution plate or other items for providing support to filter media or other liquid treatment components.

The exemplary liquid connector 228 has respective conduits connected to a first pipe 242 and a second pipe 244. Pipes 242 and 244 are connected to ports of the liquid connector 228 through couplings as shown. First pipe 242 is in fluid connection with the lower area of the tank 238 through the strainer 240. Second pipe 244 is in fluid connection with the interior area 232 of the tube 230. Pipes 242 and 244 are connected to a liquid connector 246. Liquid connector 246 includes ports which are connected to pipes 242 and 244 through couplings. Liquid connector 246 is connected to a control valve 248. In exemplary arrangements control valve 248 may be similar to valves 10, 110 and 710 previously discussed. In the exemplary arrangement liquid connector 246 is an interchangeable connector similar to liquid connector 228 that is suitable for providing two separated fluid flow paths therethrough for connection to separate areas of a liquid treatment tank or ports of a control valve.

An exemplary liquid connector 250 is shown in FIGS. 23 through 26 . Liquid connector 250 includes a body 252. Body 252 includes a first port 254 and a second port 256. In the exemplary arrangement ports 254 and 256 extend outward from the body in parallel side-by-side relation. Each of the ports include suitable structures to be releasably connect to pipes in a manner like that previously discussed.

Body 252 includes an annular wall 258. Annular wall 258 bounds annular liquid opening 260. Annular wall 258 includes a generally smooth inside annular wall surface 262. Annular wall 258 also includes an annular threaded outside wall surface 264.

A pipe 266 extends in centered concentric relation within the annular wall 258. The pipe includes a pipe opening 268. The pipe 266 extends perpendicular to the centerlines 270, 272 of first port 254 and second port 256. As shown in FIG. 24 , second port 256 is fluidly connected to pipe opening 268 through a conduit or passage 274 in body 252. First port 254 is fluidly connected to the annular liquid opening 260 through a conduit or fluid passage 276. Fluid passages 274 and 276 are fluidly separated within the body.

In the exemplary arrangement, liquid connector 250 may be interchangeably connected to a liquid treatment tank or a control valve by connection to a respective adapter. As shown in FIGS. 23, 24 and 26 , a tank adapter 278 is used to connect the connector with a tank. As shown in FIGS. 23 through 25 , a valve adapter 280 is used to connect the connector with a control valve 248. In the exemplary arrangement a securing ring 282 is used to hold the adapter in engagement with the body.

Tank adapter 278 includes a central annular outward tank adapter flange 284. An annular tank adapter projection 286 extends axially from the flange in a first axial direction. The tank adapter projection 286 is sized to be accepted in close fitting relation with the inside annular wall surface 262 of body 252. Tank adapter projection 286 includes an annular recess in which an annular resilient seal 288 is positioned. The tank adapter projection seal is operative to engage annular wall surface 262 in fluid tight sealing engagement. Of course it should be understood that this type of seal arrangement is exemplary and in other arrangements other types of sealing arrangements may be used.

Tank adapter 278 further includes a threaded annular nipple projection 290. Threaded annular nipple projection 290 is configured to engage threaded opening 220 in the bottom wall 218 of tank 212. Nipple projection 290 bounds a nipple interior annular wall 292. Nipple interior annular wall bounds a chamber 294.

Tank adapter 278 further includes a central coupling 296. The central coupling 296 is concentric with the nipple interior annular wall 292. Central coupling 296 extends through the tank adapter and engages pipe 266 of the body 252. The chamber 294 is fluidly connected to the annular liquid opening 260 of the body 252. As a result the interior area of the central coupling is maintained fluidly separate from the chamber within the tank adapter 278.

Tank adapter 278 further includes a resilient tank seal 298. Tank seal 298 is configured to extend in surrounding relation of the threaded annular nipple projection 290. Tank seal 298 is supported on the tank adapter flange 284, but is disposed radially inward from the outermost portion thereof so that the tank seal is inwardly disposed from the securing ring 282 when the liquid connector is assembled. Tank seal 298 is configured to resiliently sealingly engage the bottom wall 218 of the tank and the tank adapter flange 284 so as to provide a fluid tight seal.

The exemplary tank adapter further includes a plurality of angularly disposed clips 300. Clips 300 are configured to releasably engage strainer 240. This enables the strainer to be fluidly connected with the chamber 294. The central coupling 296 is configured to be connected to the tube 230. This enables the tube interior area 232 to be fluidly connected with the interior of the central coupling, pipe 266 and second port 256 of the body 250.

When in use the tank adapter 278 extends through the bottom wall 218 of the tank 212. The tank adapter is threadably engaged with the tank wall in sealed relation. The tank adapter enables fluid connection of the first port 254 of the body with the lower area 238 of the tank, and the second port 256 of the body to be connected with the upper area 236 through the tube 230. The liquid connector 250 enables these separate areas of the tank to be fluidly connected to the connector and to provide separate connections thereto.

The exemplary valve adapter 280 includes an annular valve adapter flange 302. An annular valve adapter projection 304 extends axially from flange 302. The annular valve adapter projection is sized to be accepted in the annular liquid opening 260 in close fitting relation with the inside annular wall surface 262 of the body 252. The exemplary valve adapter projection 304 includes an annular recess in which an annular resilient valve adapter projection seal 306 is positioned. When the valve adapter 280 is engaged with the body 252, seal 306 sealingly extends between annular surface 262 of the body and annular surface 304 of the valve adapter so as to provide a fluid tight connection. Of course this seal arrangement is exemplary and other types of sealing arrangements may be used.

Valve adapter 280 includes a threaded valve adapter opening 308. Valve adapter opening 308 is configured to receive therein a threaded valve body projection 310 and underside of a control valve such as those previously discussed. For example in some arrangements the threaded valve body projection may be an annular threaded projection 310 such as is shown on the body of valve 10 in FIG. 1 and valve 248 in FIG. 26 . Such a threaded valve body projection may be suitable for engaging a threaded opening at the top of a tank such as is shown in FIG. 1 as well as for engaging valve adapter 280.

In the exemplary arrangement the valve adapter 280 is configured such that two valve ports are separately fluidly engaged with the liquid connector 250. Using valve 10 which was previously discussed as an example, when the valve is engaged with the valve adapter 208 the second tank port 60 (E) is fluidly engaged with the pipe 266. Likewise, the first tank port 58 (D) is fluidly engaged with the annular liquid opening 60 of the body 250. As a result the first and second ports of the valve are separately fluidly engaged respectively with ports 254, 256 of the body 252. Specifically in the exemplary arrangement using control valve 10, port E of the valve is engaged with second port 256 of the body while port D of the valve is fluidly engaged with first port 254 of the body. Of course it should be understood that this approach is exemplary and in other arrangements other approaches may be used.

The exemplary body 252 further includes an injector port 312. Injector port 312 is a closable port that is configured to be closed with a plug or similar stopper when not in use. Injector port 312 is in fluid connection with passage 274 which is connected to second port 256 and pipe 266. Injector port 312 is usable to provide air injection into the interior area of the tank 212 through the tube 230. As shown in FIG. 28 this may be done using a hose or similar connector that supplies air from an air injector which may be similar to air injector assembly 712 of the previously discussed arrangement. Of course injector port 312 may be used for other purposes as well. Also, while only one injector port is shown in connection with passage 274, other arrangements may include additional ports including a port in connection with passage 276.

In the exemplary arrangement, the liquid connector securing ring 282 is used when either of the tank adapter 278 or the valve adapter 280 is engaged with the body 252. Securing ring 282 includes a threaded barrel 314. The threaded barrel 314 is configured to engage the threaded outside wall surface 264 of body 252. Securing ring 282 further includes a radiantly inwardly extending annular lip 316. The axially inner annular surface of lip 316 is configured to outwardly overlie the outer portion of flange 302 of the valve adapter and flange 284 of the tank adapter. As previously discussed, the exemplary tank seal 298 is configured to extend radially inward of the lip 316 so that the tank seal can engage the outer surface of the tank in fluid tight sealing relation. Of course it should be understood that this arrangement is exemplary and in other arrangements other approaches may be used.

The exemplary liquid connector 250 is useful in that it enables the direction of the ports 254, 256 to be set as desired anywhere within a 3600 angle of rotation. This is because each of the valve adapter 280 and tank adapter 278 may be positioned in any angular orientation relative to the body 252. As a result, the position for the ports of the liquid connector may be selected so as to facilitate the plumbing of the liquid treatment system and position the control valve and/or other elements as is best suitable for the particular system arrangement.

Of course it should be understood that the liquid connector arrangement shown is exemplary and one that may be used in connection with a liquid treatment arrangement using control valves and liquid treatment tanks of the type previously discussed. The exemplary arrangement is particularly useful in connection with a system for water treatment where it is assured that the interior components of the valve remain wetted generally continuously so as to avoid the buildup of material within the valve that could hinder its operation and limit its useful life. Of course, exemplary liquid connectors may also have other arrangements of ports, connectors and other structures to facilitate the operation in other types of systems while utilizing the principles described herein.

FIGS. 29 and 30 show an alternative fluid control valve 320. Valve 320 may have features similar to the other fluid control valves that have been described. Valve 320 is configured to be in operative releasable connection with an actuator 322. The actuator 322 houses at least one motor 324, control circuitry and other components which are usable to selectively move at least one movable valve element within the valve and place the valve in different fluid flow conditions. The exemplary valve includes a valve body 326. The valve body includes an inlet port 328. The inlet port is configured to receive untreated liquid such as water therein. The valve body further includes an outlet port 330. The outlet port is configured to deliver liquid that has been treated by having passed through a liquid treatment tank that is in fluid connection with the valve. The exemplary arrangement further includes a drain port 332 that is configured to be operatively connected with the drain. In the exemplary arrangement the fluid control valve is configured for use with a liquid treatment tank that is operative to oxidize and filter out contaminants in the liquid similar to the tanks previously discussed. Of course it should be understood that this particular configuration is exemplary and in other arrangements other approaches may be used.

As shown in FIG. 30 the exemplary fluid control valve 320 is configured to be attached to a threaded opening in an enclosed treatment tank. The threaded opening is configured to be at the bottom of the tank when the tank is in an operative position. The body 326 of the exemplary valve 320 includes a threaded outside wall surface 334. The threaded outside wall surface 334 may have a configuration similar to the threaded outside wall surface 264 of the liquid connector 250 that was previously discussed. The exemplary valve body includes a central opening or conduit 336. Opening 336 is configured to accept therein a tube which may be similar to the tube 230 previously discussed. Valve body 326 further includes a plurality of liquid openings 338. The liquid openings extend in spaced surrounding relation of the central opening 336. In the exemplary arrangement while the liquid openings 338 are separated by radially extending supports that engage the circular structure that bounds the central opening, it should be understood that all of the liquid openings 338 are fluidly connected together and provide a fluid conduit that connects to fluid passages within the valve body that can be fluidly separated from the central opening. Of course it should be understood that this configuration is exemplary and other arrangements other configurations may be used.

The exemplary valve is further configured to engage a tank adapter 340. The tank adapter may have some features similar to the tank adapter 278 that was previously discussed. The exemplary tank adapter 340 includes a nipple projection 342. Nipple projection 342 is threaded and configured to engage a threaded opening in an associated tank. The tank adapter 340 further includes an annular flange portion 344. The annular flange portion is circumferentially enlarged relative to an annular sleeve portion 346. The tank adapter further includes a bore 348. The central opening 336 and the liquid openings 338 are accessible through the bore 348 when the valve components adapted for engaging the tank are in the assembled operative condition. The exemplary tank adapter 340 further includes a lower face 350. The lower face 350 is configured to be in abutting relation with an upper face 352 of the valve body. A resilient an annular seal 354 extends between the lower face 350 and the upper face 354 when the tank adapter is in operative engagement with the valve body. The annular seal 354 serves to maintain the upper face 352 and the lower face of the tank adapter 350 in fluid tight relation.

The exemplary arrangement further includes a securing ring 356. In some exemplary arrangements the securing ring may have some features similar to the securing ring 282 previously discussed. Securing ring 356 includes a threaded barrel 358. The threaded barrel 358 is configured to releasably engage the threaded outside wall surface 334. The securing ring 356 further includes a radially inward extending annular lip 360. The annular lip 360 is configured to engage the annular flange portion 344 of the tank adapter when the securing ring 356 is in the operative position. Thus as can be appreciated, the exemplary configuration enables the fluid control valve 320 to be releasably mounted in operative fluid connection with the tank and is configurable to enable the inlet port and the outlet port of the valve to be selectively angularly oriented relative to the tank. Of course it should be understood that this configuration is exemplary and in other arrangements other configurations may be used.

The exemplary fluid control valve 320 is configured to be used in conjunction with an enclosed tank which may be similar to tank 212 previously discussed. The exemplary tank includes a top wall with an upper opening which may be similar to the upper opening 224 associated with tank 212 which has been previously discussed. In the exemplary arrangement the fluid control valve 320 is configured for use in connection with a tank which has a check valve 362 positioned in the tank upper opening. In the exemplary arrangement the check valve 362 includes an annular threaded portion 364. Threaded portion 364 may be configured to releasably engage mating threads on the tank opening in a manner like that done by the plug 226 that was utilized in the previously described arrangements.

As shown in FIG. 31 the exemplary check valve includes an air port 366. The air port 366 enables the interior area of the tank to be in fluid connection with a source of air such as atmosphere. The exemplary air port extends through a fitting body 368 that includes an enlarged cylindrical area 370 therein. The enlarged cylindrical area is configured to receive a removable valve cartridge 372 therein. The exemplary cartridge 372 includes a movable element such as a check ball 374 therein that is biased by a spring or similar biasing member to close an orifice opening 376. In the exemplary arrangement the check ball 374 is movable in the cartridge 372 to enable air to pass into the interior area of the tank through the air port 366, but prevents air from passing outward from the tank. The exemplary check valve 362 further includes an externally threaded outer portion 378. The externally threaded outer portion is releasably engageable with an internally threaded cap 380. The exemplary cap includes a central opening 382. The central opening 382 enables air from atmosphere to pass into the tank interior area through the cartridge 372 and the air port 366. In the exemplary arrangement the cap 380 is removable from engagement with the externally threaded outer portion 378 of the fitting body 368. Removal of the cap 380 enables the cartridge 372 to be removed so it can be readily cleaned or replaced as may be necessary during the life of the system. Of course it should be understood that this configuration is exemplary and in other arrangements other approaches may be used.

The exemplary fluid control valve 320 is configured to be mounted below an enclosed tank such as tank 384 shown in FIG. 32 . Similar to tank 212 previously described, the tank bounds an interior area 386. The tank includes an upper area 388 that is configured to house an air pocket. The tank interior area further includes a lower area 390. The lower area houses filter media 392 which may be one of the types of media previously discussed. The interior area may also house aeration bodies such as the sorbing balls previously discussed that are positioned above the filter media.

The exemplary interior area of the tank 384 further includes a tube 394. Similar to tube 230, tube 394 bounds a tube passage that extends from a tube opening 396 positioned in the upper area of the tank, to the central opening 336 of the valve which provides a fluid conduit that extends outside and below the tank to the fluid passages within the valve body. A strainer 398 extends in the lower area 390 and below the top of the filter media 392. The strainer is in fluid connection with the liquid opening 338 which provides a fluid conduit that extends outside and below the tank to the fluid passages in the valve body. The exemplary tank 384 further includes a check valve 362 in the upper opening of the tank. The drain port 332 of the valve 320 is fluidly connected to a conduit 400 which is fluidly connected to a drain 402. In the exemplary arrangement the drain 402 comprises a floor drain that is positioned vertically below the valve 320. Of course it should be understood that this arrangement is exemplary and other arrangements other approaches may be used.

In an exemplary water treatment system shown in FIG. 32 a pair of liquid treatment tanks are shown. A second tank 404 may be a similar tank to tank 384 and may be fluidly connected in parallel therewith. In the exemplary arrangement each of tank 384 and 404 may be fluidly connected through a respective fluid control valve 322 with an untreated liquid line such as untreated water line 406. Each of tank 384 and 404 may also be connected through the respective fluid control valve 322 with a treated water line 408. The treated water line may be fluidly connected with water use devices that utilize treated water of the types previously discussed. Of course this configuration is exemplary and other arrangements other approaches may be used.

In the exemplary arrangement each of tank 384 and 404 are in fluid connection with a disinfectant source such as a tank of disinfectant liquid 410. The disinfectant liquid may be selectively delivered into the tank interior area of a respective tank through a disinfectant introduction line 412 (only one of which is shown). In some exemplary arrangements a suitable pump 414 may be in operative fluid connection with the disinfectant source and operative to selectively deliver determined amounts of disinfectant liquid to the interior area of the tank. The disinfectant introduction line 412 may further include one or more suitable valves 416 for purposes of controlling the delivery of disinfectant liquid into the tank and avoiding the passage of liquid from the tank to the disinfectant source. In some exemplary arrangements the disinfectant pump 414 and valves 416 may be operated responsive to the control of the actuator 322. Of course these approaches are exemplary and in other arrangements other approaches may be used.

As represented in FIG. 36 the exemplary fluid control valve 320 includes at least one movable valve element 418. In the exemplary arrangement the at least one movable valve element 418 comprises at least one piston type valve element that is movable in a generally cylindrical bore 420 within the valve body. The actuator 322 is operative to control the motor 324 to selectively move and position the at least one valve element 418 longitudinally along an axis 422. The exemplary valve body includes a plurality of fluid passages. In the exemplary arrangement at least some of the fluid passages are annular passages that extend between resilient annular seals 424. By selectively moving and axially positioning the at least one valve element 418 the actuator 322 is operative to selectively place in fluid communication the fluid passages within the valve body and the inlet port 328, the outlet port 330, drain port 332 and the fluid conduits that extend in the tank adapter that are in fluid connection with the central opening 336 and liquid openings 338. Of course while the exemplary arrangement discloses piston type valve elements, other arrangements may include valve elements of different types and which have different configurations for selectively controlling liquid flow through a valve body.

In the exemplary arrangement when the fluid control valve 320 is in the service condition which is represented in FIG. 36 , untreated liquid which in the exemplary arrangement is water which requires water treatment for use, is received into the inlet port 328 of the valve from the untreated water line 406. In this service condition in which the valve element 418 is in the service position represented in FIG. 36 , water flows through the fluid passages from the inlet port 328 and upwardly through the conduit and central opening 336. The water that is received from the valve passes upwardly in the tube passage of tube 394 and exits through the tube opening 396 at the top of the tube. The water then passes downwardly through the air pocket in the upper area 388 of the tank, over the sorbing balls or other aeration bodies and into the filter media 392. Fluid then flows downwardly through the filter media such that contaminants including the oxidized contaminants produced by passing the fluid through the air pocket, are removed from the water. The water then passes from the lower area of the tank including a portion of the lower area below the level of the top of the filter media through the strainer 398.

Filtered water that has passed through the strainer 398 flows downwardly through the openings 338 and through the conduit in the valve body as represented in FIG. 36 . The filtered water then passes through the bore 420 and from the outlet port 330. Water then passes from the outlet port to the treated water line 408 as represented in FIG. 32 . As represented in FIG. 32 each of tank 384 and tank 404 are shown operating in the service condition. In this condition the tanks operate to oxidize contaminants and filter incoming water in parallel, and deliver filtered water to the water use devices in fluid connection with the system through the treated water line 408.

In exemplary arrangements after operation in the service condition for a period of time the oxygen included in the air pocket in the upper area of the tanks begins to be depleted. The determination of the need to replenish the air and oxygen and the upper area of the tank may be determined in one of the ways previously discussed. In exemplary arrangements a plurality of tanks in a set, such as the pair of tanks depicted in FIG. 32 , may be operated to have each tank undergo a regeneration and new air introduction cycle at a time that is different from when at least one other tank needs undergo a regeneration and new air introduction cycle. In this way at least one of the tanks may continue to operate in the service condition while the other tank undergoes the necessary regeneration and air replenishment cycle. This helps to assure that a suitable supply of treated and filtered water is always available. Of course this approach is exemplary and in other arrangements other approaches such as providing a storage tank with filtered water that can be used as a source of supply while treatment units undergo regeneration simultaneously may be used.

In the exemplary arrangement when it is determined through operation of the actuator or other system controller that the tank needs to undergo regeneration and air replenishment, the controller operates to move the at least one valve element 418 axially from the service position shown in FIG. 36 to the decompression position shown in FIG. 37 . In the position shown in FIG. 37 the valve 320 is positioned to have the air pocket located in the upper area of the tank undergo decompression. As represented by the flow arrows in FIG. 37 in this position of the at least one valve element the water is enabled to flow downward through the liquid openings 338 and the fluid conduit in the valve body 326. The liquid flows through at least one fluid passage and axially through an interior area of the valve element to the drain port 332. Fluid passes from the drain port 332 of the valve to the floor drain 402 as represented in FIG. 33 . In FIG. 33 tank 404 is shown as being in the decompression position while the tank 384 remains in the service position.

As further represented in FIG. 33 when the valve 320 is in the decompression condition the passage of water from the lower area of the tank causes air to be drawn into the tank through the check valve 362 at the top of tank 404. The ability of the check valve to enable air to be drawn into the tank when the fluid control valve 320 is in the decompression position facilitates the decompression of the air pocket and the ability of the liquid to drain from the tank.

In some exemplary arrangements the actuator 322 may operate to cause the valve element 418 to be in the decompression position for sufficient time to enable the liquid to drain and air to enter the tank so that a majority of the tank interior area is drained of the water. In other exemplary arrangements the circuit executable instructions of the actuator may control the time that the fluid control valve is in the decompression position so as to only enable the water to drain from the tank to a set level above the valve. Alternatively or in addition, the spring pressure on the check ball 374 or other valve element may be set so as to limit the introduction of air into the tank only to a level that maintains the presence of some water in the bottom area of the tank and/or within the interior of the valve. This may be done to help assure that the resilient seals adjacent to the valve elements remain wetted with water during the decompression process. Of course these approaches are exemplary and other arrangements other approaches may be used.

Further it should be noted that in the exemplary arrangement the position of the at least one valve element 418 in the service position shown in FIG. 36 is immediately axially adjacent to the decompression position of the valve element 418 shown in FIG. 37 . This is done for reasons discussed in connection with previously described arrangements so that the exemplary valve can change between the service condition and the decompression position without having to place the valve and other conditions which may result in undesirable flow conditions or cause exposure of internal valve seal components to air.

In the exemplary arrangement the actuator 322 may operate in accordance with its circuit executable instructions to next place the tank in the air release condition. This is done in an exemplary arrangement by placing the at least one valve element 418 in the axial position represented in FIG. 38 . In this exemplary condition untreated liquid is passed from the inlet port 328 and through the fluid passages within the valve body to the liquid openings 338 below the filter media and outside of the tube 394. The water passes upward through the media 392 and into the upper area of the tank where the water displaces the air which passes with the water into the tube opening 396. The air and water then passes downward through the tube 394, downward through the central opening 336 and the conduit in the valve body. Fluid then passes through the at least one valve passage and through the opening provided between the passage and the valve element 418 and out of the valve body through the drain port 332 and to the drain 402. It should be appreciated that in this air release position the check valve 362 remains closed so that no air or liquid passes out of the tank through the air port and the check valve. Further in this air release position of the valve the filter media is subject to an initial backflush to remove particulates and certain contaminants therefrom and pass such dislodged containments from the tank to the drain. Of course this approach is exemplary and in other arrangements other approaches may be used.

In operation of the exemplary arrangement the actuator 322 then operates in accordance with its circuit executable instructions to place the tank in a sterilization condition. In some exemplary arrangements the actuator may operate to cause disinfectant to be delivered from the disinfectant source 410 to the interior area of the tank. This may be done in some arrangements while the valve element 418 is positioned in the shut off position represented in FIG. 41 . In this condition no liquid flow occurs through the tank because the valve element closes the fluid passage to the outlet port 330. Thus in this exemplary valve configuration while the inlet port 328 to the valve may be in fluid connection with the top of the tank, no water is enabled to flow through the tank because flow to the outlet port 330 is closed. In exemplary arrangements the actuator may operate to deliver the liquid disinfectant into the interior area of the tank and may then wait for a set time period in order to enable the liquid to disperse. Alternatively in other arrangements the fluid control valve 320 or other valve arrangements may operate to cause liquid to be passed into the tank and a nozzle or other liquid introduction device may be utilized to draw disinfectant into the flowing liquid which may be then passed through the tank and from the valve to a drain in a manner like that previously discussed. Of course these and other approaches may be utilized in different arrangements.

In an exemplary arrangement after the disinfectant material has been introduced to the tank interior area, the exemplary actuator 322 operates to position the valve in a rinse condition. The rinse condition of the valve 320 is represented in FIG. 40 . In this exemplary position with the valve element in the rinse position, water is enabled to be passed from the inlet port 328 through the valve passages and through the tube 394 to the upper area of the tank. The water and the disinfectant liquid then flows downward over the sorbing balls or other aeration bodies if present, and downward through the filter media 392. Water which exits the tank passes through the liquid openings 338, through the conduit and fluid passages in the valve. The water then passes axially through the valve element 418 and exits from the valve to the drain port 332. The exemplary actuator operates to cause the valve to be in this position for a set period of time which is programmed and determined to be sufficient to disperse the disinfectant liquid within the interior area of the tank. After being in the rinse position shown in FIG. 40 the exemplary actuator returns the valve elements to the shut off position shown in FIG. 41 . In the exemplary arrangement the valve remains in the off condition for a set period of time to enable the disinfectant liquid to operate to disinfect the interior area of the tank as well as the media and aeration bodies therein. FIG. 35 depicts tank 404 in the rinse condition. Of course this approach is exemplary and in other arrangements other approaches may be used.

In exemplary arrangement after the time in which the actuator holds the disinfectant in the tank so it is permitted to work, the exemplary fluid control valve 320 operates to cause the valve to be changed to a backwash condition as represented in FIG. 39 . In the backwash position of the valve element 418 water is passed from the inlet port 328 through the fluid passages in the valve and the conduit in the valve body that is connected to the liquid openings 338. The water then passes upward through the media 392 and the aeration bodies back flushing the media and bodies to remove contaminants therefrom. The water then passes into the tube opening 396, downward through the tube 394 and into the central opening 336 in the valve body 326. The backflushed water then passes through the fluid passages and around the valve element 418 to the drain port 332. The water then passes from the drain port to the drain 402. FIG. 34 shows the tank 404 in the backwash condition. In the exemplary arrangement the actuator maintains the valve 320 in the backwash condition for sufficient time to flush the media of contaminants that have been released through operation of the disinfectant.

In the exemplary arrangement after the valve has been in the backwash condition for a set period of time, the exemplary actuator then causes the valve to be placed in the rinse position represented in FIG. 40 . In the rinse condition as previously discussed, water from the inlet port 328 is passed through the fluid passages in the valve and upward through the central opening 336, and the tube passage in the tube 394. The water exits from the tube opening 396 in the upper area of the tank and flows downward on the outside of the tube. The water passes downward outside of the tube, over the aeration bodies and through the media to further flush the remaining contaminants and disinfectant liquid downward within the interior area of the tank. The water passes from the lower area of the tank, through the liquid openings 338, through the conduits in the valve body, axially through the valve element 418 and out the drain port 332. The water that is passed through the tank 404 exits from the tank and the valve and passes into the drain 402.

In an exemplary arrangement the actuator then operates to draw air into the tank to produce an air pocket containing fresh air with suitable oxygen content into the upper area of the tank. This is accomplished by moving the valve element 418 from the position shown in the rinse position in FIG. 40 to the air draw position shown in FIG. 37 . The position of the valve element in the exemplary air draw condition is the same as that in the decompression condition. In the exemplary arrangement liquid is enabled to pass out of the lower area of the tank through the liquid openings 338, through the conduit in the valve body connected thereto and axially through the valve element 418. The water then passes out of the valve 320 the drain port 332 and to the drain 402. As the water drains from the bottom of the tank air is drawn into the upper area of the tank through the check valve 362. The negative pressure which results from the drainage of water from the bottom of the tank causes the check ball 374 to be displaced downward from its seat against the orifice opening 376. This allows air from atmosphere to enter the upper area of the tank through the air port 366 of the check valve.

In the exemplary arrangement air is enabled to be drawn into the upper area 388 of the tank relatively quickly by the negative pressure produced in the upper area of the tank by the water being drained therefrom. Further in exemplary arrangements the spring pressure acting on the ball of the check valve is set so that the amount of negative pressure that is allowed to be produced in the upper area of the tank before the valve opens to atmosphere is limited so that no damage or collapsing occurs due to the presence of negative pressure within the tank. Thus in the exemplary arrangement an air pocket with fresh air and oxygen content is enabled to be quickly introduced within the upper area of the tank. This facilitates the creation of the air pocket and reduces the amount of time required to produce a pocket compared to other arrangements which may use an air injector nozzle arrangement. Of course it should be understood that this approach is exemplary and other arrangements other approaches may be used.

After air has been introduced into the upper area of the tank, the exemplary actuator 332 operates to cause the valve element 418 to return to the service position as shown in FIG. 36 . The tank then operates in the service condition until the tank is next required to undergo a regeneration and air introduction cycle. Of course it should be understood that the steps described in connection with the exemplary regeneration and air introduction cycle may differ from those used in other arrangements. For example, in some arrangements certain steps may be omitted or combined with other steps to facilitate the speed in which the cycle may be accomplished. This may be important in certain applications where it is necessary to maintain high flow rates of filtered water to meet supply requirements of the water use devices. This may be particularly true in commercial systems which have high flow rates. Further it should be understood that while in the exemplary arrangement a set comprising pair of tanks has been utilized to provide the filtered water to the water use devices, in other arrangements different numbers of tanks may be used further in other arrangements different types of water treatment devices may also be utilized in connection with the water treatment system. This may include softener devices, disinfectant devices, filtration devices or other suitable water treatment devices that produce water that is suitable for the particular needs of the system.

FIG. 42 shows an alternative arrangement that operates to oxidize and filter contaminants in water or other liquid to be treated. This exemplary system includes a pair of treatment tanks 424 and 426. Tanks 424 and 426 may be similar to tanks 404 and 384 previously described except as otherwise stated. Each of the tanks is in fluid connection with a fluid control valve 428. The valves may be similar to fluid control valves 320 or other valves which have been previously described. Each of the valves receives untreated liquid from an untreated water line 430 and delivers filtered liquid through of treated water line 432.

In this alternative system shown in FIG. 42 each of the tanks 424, 426 includes a respective air port at the top of the tank that is in fluid connection with an air introduction nozzle. The exemplary air introduction nozzle may be similar to the venturi type nozzles and air injector assemblies previously discussed in connection with other arrangements that draw air from atmosphere in response to water flow through the nozzle. In the exemplary arrangement tank 424 includes an air introduction nozzle 434 and tank 426 has an air introduction nozzle 436. As can be appreciated in this exemplary system, the air introduction nozzles are used to introduce air into the upper area of the tanks.

In this exemplary arrangement the air introduction nozzle 434 that is in operative connection with tank 424 is selectively supplied with filtered liquid from the tank 426. This is done through a drive water line 438. The drive water line may be supplied with filtered liquid in some arrangements by positioning the at least one valve element in the fluid control valve 428 associated with tank 426 in a position that causes filtered liquid to be delivered through the drive water line 438. In alternative arrangements the filtered liquid from tank 426 may be delivered through the drive water line 438 through a separate valve arrangement.

Further a drive water line 440 is operative to selectively deliver filtered water from tank 424 to the air introduction nozzle 436 associated with tank 426. The filtered water that is supplied to the drive water line 440 may be supplied by the valve 428 associated with tank 424 by positioning at least one valve element therein so that filtered water is delivered from the tank and the outlet port of the valve 428 through the line. Alternatively a separate valve element arrangement that is operative to deliver filtered liquid from the tank 424 to the drive water line 440 may be used.

In exemplary arrangements the water that has been filtered by having passed through the other tank that is in the service condition, and is delivered from the filtered liquid outlet thereof, may be used for purposes of providing water flow in the drive water line which serves as an air introduction line for delivering air into the adjacent tank that is in the air draw condition. The filtered water that flows in the drive water line draws air from atmosphere into the venturi of the air introduction nozzle associated with the tank that is in the air draw condition, and causes air from atmosphere to be delivered into the upper area of the tank. Using filtered liquid from the adjacent tank that is in the service condition avoids the need to use unfiltered water for this purpose which would result in introducing contaminants to the interior area of the tank and the media. Further using filtered liquid for the purpose of drawing air through the air introduction line into the upper area of the tank provides a rinse function for the aeration bodies and the filter media in addition to drawing air into the tank. Thus in this exemplary arrangement shown in FIG. 42 the introduction of contaminants during the air introduction portion of the cycle is reduced. Of course it should be understood that these approaches for using filtered liquid from the adjacent tank in the service position to provide filtered water flow in the drive water line is exemplary and in other arrangements other approaches may be used.

Further in some exemplary arrangements it may be desirable to use filtered water from an adjacent tank that is in the service condition when carrying out backwash and/or rinse conditions of the tank that is undergoing regeneration and air introduction. FIGS. 43-45 show an exemplary arrangement which includes a pair of treatment tanks 442 and 444 which are shown in phantom. Each of the tanks has an associated fluid control valve 446, 448. In exemplary arrangements the fluid control valves 446, 448 may be similar to fluid control valves 320 or other valves previously discussed. Fluid control valve 446 includes an inlet port 450 an outlet port 452 and a drain port 454 each of which are shown schematically. Valve 448 likewise also includes an inlet port 456, an outlet port 458 and a drain port 460. Each of the drain ports 454, 460 are in fluid connection with a drain 462.

In the exemplary arrangement the valves 446, 448 and the tanks 442, 444 are supplied with untreated water from an untreated water line 462. The tanks 442, 444 and the associated valves 446, 448 deliver filtered water when in the service condition to a filtered water line 464. As can be appreciated each of the exemplary valves 446, 448 are selectively operative to place the respective associated tank in each of the valve conditions which have been previously described in connection with fluid control valve 320. This includes a rinse condition and a backflow condition which causes water flow through the associated tank in the manner previously described.

The exemplary system shown in FIGS. 43 through 45 includes a valve 466 and a further valve 468. In some exemplary arrangements valves 466 and 468 may be separate valves that operate as three-way valves. Alternatively in other arrangements the functions of valve 466 may be incorporated into fluid control valve 446 or alternatively fluid control valve 448. Likewise the functions of valve 468 may be incorporated into fluid control valve 448 or 446. This may be done by providing alternative valve elements and/or flow passages that enable water flow in the manner described.

In exemplary arrangements valve 466 may operate responsive to the actuator associated with fluid control valve 446 to deliver untreated water into the inlet port 450 of valve 446 when valve 446 is in the service condition. Likewise valve 468 may operate to deliver untreated water into the inlet port 456 of valve 448 when valve 448 is in the service position. These positions of valves 466 and 468 are represented schematically in FIG. 43 .

FIG. 44 represents the operation of valve 466 when tank 442 is caused by fluid control valve 446 to undergo a regeneration and air introduction cycle while valve 448 and tank 444 remain in the service condition. As represented by the flow path arrows associated with valve 466, when valve 446 operates in at least one of the rinse condition and the backwash condition, valve 466 supplies the inlet port 450 of valve 446 with filtered water from the filtered water line 464. In the condition shown the filtered water line is supplied from tank 444 which remains in the service condition. Thus by placing valve 466 in the condition shown, tank 442 is supplied with rinse and/or backwash water that has been filtered by tank 444. This avoids rinsing and/or backwashing tank 442 with untreated water. This reduces the level of contaminants that would otherwise be introduced into the tank 442 and the media and aeration bodies therein by rinsing and/or backwashing tank 442 with untreated water.

In exemplary arrangements a suitable motor or other actuator may be utilized to position valve 466 in the filtered water delivery condition represented in FIG. 44 when the fluid control valve 446 operates to cause the tank 442 to be in the rinse condition, the backwash condition, or both. Alternatively as previously mentioned one or more valve elements and fluid passages in fluid control valve 446 (and/or fluid control valve 448) may be utilized to provide for the delivery of filtered water to the inlet port of valve 446 during the desired times during the regeneration and air introduction cycle.

FIG. 45 schematically represents the delivery of filtered water to the inlet port 456 of valve 448 during times that valve 448 places tank 444 in the rinse condition and/or the backwash condition. As represented schematically in FIG. 45 fluid control valve 446 operates to maintain tank 442 in the service condition which is supplied with untreated water through valve 466. The filtered liquid supplied by the outlet port 452 of valve 446 is delivered to the filtered water line 464. Water from the filtered water line is delivered through valve 468 to the inlet port 456 of valve 448. In exemplary arrangements the valve 468 may be operated so that filtered water is delivered to the inlet port of valve 448 at times when the use of filtered water is desirable. As previously discussed this may include times when the fluid control valve 448 operates to cause the tank 444 to be in the rinse condition and/or the backwash condition. Thus by selectively placing the valve 468 in the condition to deliver filtered water to the inlet port of valve 448, the introduction of contaminants from unfiltered water that would otherwise be introduced into the interior of tank 444 during these times in the regeneration and air introduction cycle is avoided. As a result filtered water of higher quality is delivered immediately when the tank is returned to the service condition.

Of course in exemplary arrangements the function of valve 468 may be provided by a separate valve the condition of which is controlled by an actuator that operates in a coordinated manner with the actuator of fluid control valve 448. Alternatively the function of valve 468 may be integrated through the use of suitable valve elements and fluid passages in valve 448 (and/or fluid control valve 446). Further in some arrangements the valves may include slave controllers that are controlled by a central master controller in a manner like that described in the incorporated disclosures. Of course it should be understood that the approaches shown in FIGS. 43-45 are exemplary and in other arrangements other approaches may be utilized for achieving the delivery of filtered water from the associated tanks and fluid control valves.

Thus the exemplary arrangements achieve improved operation, eliminate difficulties encountered in the use of prior devices and systems and attain the useful results described herein.

In the foregoing description, certain terms have been used for brevity, clarity and understanding. However, no unnecessary limitations are to be implied therefrom because such terms are used for descriptive purposes and are intended to be broadly construed. Moreover the descriptions and illustrations herein are by way of examples and the new and useful concepts are not limited to the features shown and described.

It should be understood that the features and/or relationships associated with one arrangement can be combined with features and/or relationships from another arrangement. That is, various features and/or relationships from various arrangements can be combined in further arrangements. The inventive scope of the disclosure is not limited to only the arrangements shown or described herein.

Having described the features, discoveries and principles of the exemplary arrangements, the manner in which they are constructed and operated, and the advantages and useful results attained, the new and useful features, devices, elements, arrangements, parts, combinations, systems, equipment, operations, methods, processes and relationships are set forth in the appended claims. 

We claim:
 1. Apparatus comprising: an enclosed tank, wherein the tank includes a tank interior area, wherein in an operative position the tank interior area includes an upper area, wherein the upper area is configured to house an air pocket, a lower area, wherein the lower area houses filter media, a tube, wherein the tube extends vertically within the tank between the upper and lower areas and includes a tube opening in the upper area, wherein the tube bounds a tube passage, wherein the tube passage is in fluid connection with a first fluid conduit, wherein the first fluid conduit extends outside the tank and below the tube opening, a second fluid conduit, wherein the second fluid conduit is in direct fluid connection with a portion of the tank interior area that is below a top of the filter media and outside of the tube, a fluid control valve, wherein the fluid control valve includes a body, a plurality of valve fluid passages within the body, at least one movable valve element, wherein movably positioning the at least one valve element is operative to cause at least some of the valve fluid passages to be selectively fluidly connected and fluidly separated, a motor, wherein the motor is in operative connection with the at least one valve element, wherein the motor is operable to selectively position the at least one valve element in a service position, wherein in the service position liquid is enabled to be received into the valve through a liquid inlet port of the valve, liquid is enabled to pass through at least one valve fluid passage, through the first fluid conduit and from the tube opening into the air pocket in the upper area of the tank, whereby oxidizable contaminants in the liquid are oxidized, liquid that has passed from the tube opening is enabled to pass through the filter media which removes oxidized contaminants, through the second fluid conduit and through at least one valve fluid passage to a liquid outlet port of the valve, and a decompression position, wherein in the decompression position liquid is enabled to pass from the lower area of the tank, through the second fluid conduit and through at least one valve fluid passage to a drain port of the valve, wherein the drain port is configured to be in operative connection with a drain, wherein in the decompression position liquid that is passed from the lower area of the tank causes pressure of the air pocket in the upper area of the tank to be reduced, wherein the motor is selectively operable to cause the at least one valve element that is positioned in the service position, to be immediately next positioned in the decompression position.
 2. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the fluid control valve is positioned vertically below the tank.
 3. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the fluid control valve is positioned vertically below the tank, wherein the drain port is directly fluidly connected to the drain vertically below the drain port.
 4. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the tank is in fluid communication with an air port, wherein the air port is in direct fluid communication with the upper area, and further comprising: a check valve, wherein the check valve is in fluid communication with the air port, wherein the check valve enables air outside the tank to enter the upper area, and prevents air from exiting the upper area through the air port.
 5. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the tank is in fluid communication with an air port, wherein the air port is in direct fluid communication with the upper area, and further comprising: a check valve, wherein the check valve is in fluid communication with the air port, wherein the check valve enables air outside the tank to enter the upper area, and prevents air from exiting the upper area through the air port, wherein when the at least one valve element is in the decompression position, air is drawn into the upper area through the check valve.
 6. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the tank is in fluid communication with an air port, wherein the air port is in direct fluid communication with the upper area, wherein the air port is configured to be in operative connection with an air source, wherein the air source comprises compressed air, whereby compressed air is enabled to enter the upper area.
 7. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the fluid control valve includes a valve body, wherein the valve body includes an axially elongated cylinder bore, a piston, wherein the piston is selectively axially movable within the bore responsive to the motor, a plurality of annular flow cavities, wherein at least one of the piston and the valve body includes at least some of the plurality of annular flow cavities.
 8. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the fluid control valve includes a valve body, wherein the valve body includes an axially elongated cylinder bore, wherein the at least one valve element comprises a piston, wherein the piston is selectively axially movable within the bore responsive to the motor, wherein in the service position the piston is in an axial position that is immediately axially adjacent to a further axial position of the piston when the fluid control valve is in the decompression position.
 9. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the motor is operable to selectively position the at least one valve element in a backwash position, wherein in the backwash position liquid is enabled to be received into the valve through the liquid inlet port of the valve, liquid is enabled to be passed through at least one valve fluid passage through the second conduit and upward through the filter media, liquid is enabled to pass into the tube opening and through the tube passage, the first fluid conduit, at least one fluid passage of the valve and from the valve through the drain port.
 10. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the motor is selectively operative to position the at least one valve element in a bypass position, wherein in the bypass position liquid is enabled to pass through the valve from the inlet port to the outlet port, and not pass through the tank.
 11. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the motor is selectively operative to position the at least one valve element in a shut off position, wherein in the shut off position the liquid inlet port is not in fluid flow connection with any other port of the valve, whereby flow of liquid through the valve is prevented.
 12. The apparatus according to claim 1 and further comprising: an air introduction line, wherein the air introduction line is in operative connection with an air source and the upper area, wherein the air introduction line is configured to cause air from the air source to be delivered into the upper area of the tank without the delivered air having previously passed through the fluid control valve.
 13. The apparatus according to claim 1 and further comprising: a further filter, wherein the further filter is separate from the tank, wherein the further filter includes a filtered liquid outlet configured to deliver filtered liquid from the further filter, an air introduction line, wherein the air introduction line is in operative fluid connection with the upper area of the tank, wherein the air introduction line is in operative fluid connection with the filtered liquid outlet, an air injector nozzle, wherein the air injector nozzle is in fluid connection with the air introduction line and atmosphere, wherein flow of filtered liquid through the air introduction line is configured to cause the air injector nozzle to draw air from atmosphere into the air introduction line, and the air to be delivered into the upper area of the tank with filtered liquid.
 14. The apparatus according to claim 1 and further comprising: a disinfectant introduction line, wherein the disinfectant introduction line is in operative connection with a disinfectant source, and the upper area, wherein the disinfectant introduction line is configured to cause disinfectant from the disinfectant source to be delivered into the upper area.
 15. The apparatus according to claim 1 and further comprising: aeration bodies within the upper area, wherein the aeration bodies have respective surfaces in the air pocket that enhance oxidation of oxidizable contaminants in the liquid.
 16. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the liquid comprises water, and wherein the fluid control valve includes a valve interior area, wherein at least one resilient seal is in operative connection with the at least one movable valve element in the valve interior area, wherein the at least one resilient seal is wetted with water at all times when the at least one valve element is in the service position.
 17. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the motor is operable subsequent to positioning the at least one valve element in the decompression position, and before subsequently positioning the valve element in the service position, to position the at least one valve element in a backwash position, wherein in the backwash position liquid is enabled to be received into the valve through the liquid inlet port of the valve, liquid is enabled to be passed through at least one valve fluid passage, through the second conduit and upward through the filter media, liquid that has passed upward through the filter media is enabled to pass into the tube opening and flow through the tube passage and the first fluid conduit, through at least one fluid passage of the valve and out of the valve through the drain port, whereby air is displaced from the upper area.
 18. The apparatus according to claim 1 and further comprising: a further filter, wherein the further filter is separate from the tank, wherein the further filter includes a filtered liquid outlet configured to deliver filtered liquid from the further filter, wherein the filtered liquid outlet is selectively fluidly connectable to the fluid control valve, wherein the motor is operable subsequent to positioning the at least one valve element in the decompression position and before next positioning the valve element in the service position, to position the at least one valve element in a backwash position, wherein in the backwash position filtered liquid from the filtered liquid outlet is enabled to be received into the valve, the received filtered liquid is enabled to be passed through at least one valve fluid passage, through the second conduit and upward through the filter media, liquid after passing through the filter media is enabled to pass into the tube opening and flow through the tube passage and the first fluid conduit, through at least one fluid passage of the valve and out of the valve through the drain port, whereby the filter media is backwashed with filtered liquid.
 19. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the motor is operable subsequent to positioning the at least one valve element in the decompression position, and before next positioning the valve element in the service position, to position the at least one valve element in a backwash position, wherein in the backwash position liquid is enabled to be received into the valve through the liquid inlet port of the valve, liquid is enabled to be passed through at least one valve fluid passage, through the second fluid conduit and upward through the filter media, liquid that has passed upward through the filter media is enabled to pass into the tube opening and flow downward through the tube passage and the first fluid conduit, through at least one fluid passage of the valve and out of the valve through the drain port, and further comprising: a further filter, wherein the further filter is separate from the tank, wherein the further filter includes a filtered liquid outlet configured to deliver filtered liquid from the further filter, wherein the filtered liquid outlet is selectively fluidly connectable to the fluid control valve, wherein the motor is selectively operable after having the at least one valve element positioned in the backwash position, and before next positioning the at least one valve element in the service position, to cause the at least one valve element to be positioned in a rinse position, wherein in the rinse position filtered liquid delivered from the filtered liquid outlet is enabled to be passed through at least one fluid passage of the valve, upward through the first fluid conduit and the tube passage and out of the tube opening and into the upper area, liquid passed out of the tube opening is enabled to be passed downward through the filter media on the outside the tube, through the second fluid conduit, through at least one valve passage of the valve and out of the valve through the drain port, whereby the filter media is rinsed by filtered liquid passed therethrough.
 20. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the motor is selectively operable after having the at least one valve element positioned in the decompression position, to thereafter immediately cause the at least one valve element to be positioned in an air release position, wherein in the air release position, air in the upper area is enabled to passed into the tube opening, through the tube passage, through the first fluid conduit, then through at least one fluid passage in the valve, and out from the valve through the drain port.
 21. The apparatus according to claim 1 and further comprising: a controller, wherein the controller is in operative connection with the motor, wherein the controller is selectively operative to cause the at least one valve element that is positioned in the service position to be immediately next moved to be in the decompression position.
 22. Apparatus comprising: a fluid control valve, wherein the fluid control valve is configured to be in operative fluid connection with an enclosed tank, wherein in an operative position the tank includes an upper area configured to house an air pocket, and a lower area that is configured to house filter media, a tube, wherein the tube extends vertically within an interior area of the tank and between the upper portion and the lower portion, wherein the tube includes a tube opening to a tube passage within the tube, wherein the tube passage is in fluid connection with a first conduit that extends outside the tank and below the tube opening, wherein the tank is in operative connection with a second conduit, wherein the second conduit extends outside the tank and is in direct fluid connection with the interior area below a top of the filter media in the lower area of the tank, wherein the fluid control valve includes a valve body, a plurality of valve fluid passages within the valve body, at least one movable valve element within the valve body, wherein movably positioning the at least one movable valve element is operative to cause at least some of the valve fluid passages to be selectively fluidly connected and fluidly separated within the valve body, wherein the valve body includes a liquid inlet port, a liquid outlet port and a drain port, at least one motor, wherein the at least one motor is in operative connection with the at least one valve element, wherein the at least one motor is operable to selectively position the at least one valve element within the valve body, wherein the at least one motor is operable to selectively position the at least one valve element such that the valve is selectively placed in each of a service condition, wherein in the service condition liquid is enabled to be received into the valve body through the inlet port, liquid received through the inlet port is enabled to pass through at least one valve fluid passage to the first conduit, wherein fluid is enabled to pass outward from the tube opening in the air pocket in the upper area of the tank whereby oxidizable contaminants in the liquid are oxidized, and to pass downward outside the tube through the filter media in the lower area whereby oxidized contaminants are removed from the liquid, liquid that has passed through the filter media is enabled to flow through the second conduit and then into the valve body and through at least one valve fluid passage to the liquid outlet port, and a decompression condition, wherein in the decompression condition liquid is enabled to pass from the second conduit through at least one valve fluid passage within the valve body to the drain port, wherein the drain port is configured to be in operative connection with a drain, wherein in the decompression condition liquid passed from the lower area of the tank is operable to cause pressure of the air pocket in the upper area of the tank to be reduced, wherein the at least one motor is operable to selectively cause the at least one valve element to be moved so that the liquid flow through the valve body is changed directly from the service condition to the decompression condition.
 23. The apparatus according to claim 22 wherein in the decompression condition the at least one movable valve element is positioned so that liquid cannot flow through the fluid control valve into the upper area of the tank.
 24. The apparatus according to claim 22 wherein in the decompression position the at least one movable valve element is positioned so that liquid cannot flow through the fluid control valve into the upper area of the tank and air from the upper area of the tank is not passed through the fluid control valve.
 25. The apparatus according to claim 22 wherein the valve body of the fluid control valve includes an axially elongated internal bore, wherein the at least one valve element comprises a piston, wherein the piston is selectively axially positionable in the bore responsive to the at least one motor, wherein in the service condition of the valve the piston is in a service position, and in the decompression condition of the valve the piston is in a decompression position, wherein the service position and the decompression position are immediately axially adjacent.
 26. The apparatus according to claim 22 wherein the fluid control valve is configured to be positioned below the tank, wherein the at least one motor is selectively operable to position the at least one valve element to cause the valve to be in a backwash condition, wherein in the backwash condition, liquid is enabled to be received into the liquid inlet port of the valve and is enabled to pass through at least one valve fluid passage to the second conduit, whereby liquid is enabled to pass upward through the filter media and into the tube opening, then through the tube passage and through the first fluid conduit and to then be received into the valve body, wherein the received liquid from the first fluid conduit is enabled then to pass through at least one valve fluid passage in the valve body and outward from the valve body through the drain port.
 27. The apparatus according to claim 22 and further comprising: the tank, wherein the tank includes an air port, wherein the air port is in direct fluid communication with the upper area, a check valve, wherein the check valve is in fluid communication with the air port, wherein the check valve enables air from outside the tank to enter the upper area, and prevents air from exiting from the upper area through the air port.
 28. The apparatus according to claim 22 and further comprising: the tank, wherein the tank includes an air port, wherein the air port is in direct fluid communication with the upper area, a check valve, wherein the check valve is in fluid communication with the air port, wherein the check valve enables air from outside the tank to enter the upper area, and prevents air from exiting from the upper area through the air port, wherein when the valve is in the decompression condition, liquid passing out of the lower area is operable to cause air to be drawn into the interior area of the tank through the check valve.
 29. The apparatus according to claim 22 and further comprising: the tank, an air introduction line, wherein the air introduction line is in operative connection with an air source and the upper area, wherein the air introduction line is configured to cause air from the air source to be delivered into the upper area of the tank without the delivered air having previously passed through the valve body.
 30. The apparatus according to claim 22 and further comprising: the tank, a further filter, wherein the further filter is separate from the tank, wherein the further filter is operative to deliver filtered liquid from a filtered liquid outlet, an air introduction line, wherein the air introduction line is in operative fluid connection with the filtered liquid outlet and the upper area of the tank, an air injector nozzle, wherein the air injector nozzle is in fluid connection with the air introduction line and atmosphere, wherein filtered liquid flow through the air introduction line is operative to cause air to be drawn into the air injector nozzle and to be passed with the filtered liquid to the upper area of the tank.
 31. The apparatus according to claim 22 and further comprising: the tank, a further filter separate from the tank, wherein the further filter is configured to deliver filtered liquid from a filtered liquid outlet, wherein the filtered liquid outlet is in fluid communication with the fluid control valve, wherein the at least one motor is operative to selectively position the at least one valve element within the valve body so the valve is placed in a backwash condition, wherein in the backwash condition filtered liquid from the filtered liquid outlet is enabled to pass through at least one valve fluid passage, upward through the second fluid conduit and upward through the filter media to the upper area, liquid that is passed upward through the filter media enters the tube passage through the tube outlet and passes downward through the tube passage, through the first fluid conduit, then through at least one valve fluid passage and from the drain port of the valve to a drain, whereby the filter media is backwashed with filtered liquid.
 32. The apparatus according to claim 22 and further comprising: the tank, a further filter separate from the tank, wherein the further filter is configured to deliver filtered liquid from a filtered liquid outlet, wherein the filtered liquid outlet is in fluid communication with the fluid control valve, wherein the at least one motor is selectively operative to position the at least one valve element within the valve body such that the valve is placed in a rinse condition, wherein in the rinse condition filtered liquid from the filtered liquid outlet is enabled to pass through at least one valve fluid passage and upward through the first fluid conduit, through the tube passage and out from the tube outlet in the upper area, filtered liquid that is passed from the tube outlet in the upper area is enabled to pass downward through the filter media outside of the tube, through the second fluid conduit, through at least one valve fluid passage and from the drain port of the valve body, whereby the filter media is rinsed with filtered liquid.
 33. The apparatus according to claim 22 wherein the liquid comprises water, and wherein the fluid control valve includes at least one resilient seal within the valve body that is in operative connection with the at least one movable valve element, wherein the at least one resilient seal is wetted with water at all times when the at least one valve element is positioned so that the valve is in the service condition.
 34. The apparatus according to claim 22 wherein the motor is selectively operative to position the at least one valve element so that the valve is in a shutoff condition, wherein in the shutoff condition liquid is prevented from passage through the valve body from the liquid inlet port to any of tank, the drain port and the liquid outlet port. 